Stimulus check payments are not new to Americans, as they have been distributed for many years. They have been injecting capital into American homes to (as their name says) stimulate local economies. We have found three different stimulus check programs that might interest you.
While we already know about stimulus check programs, such as those distributed during the coronavirus pandemic, some are still in effect today and, perhaps you didn’t know it, your household could be eligible for payments that can be as big as $8,700.
Family First Pilot Program: Targeted Support for Families in Sacramento, CA
The Family First Financial Support Pilot Program, active in Sacramento, California, seeks to avoid the intervention of Child Protective Services through direct transfers to vulnerable families. Recipients can receive $8,700 distributed over one year, as long as they meet specific criteria.
To access, applicants must reside in designated ZIP codes, such as 95815, 95821 or 95823, and care for a Black, African American, American Indian or Native child ages 0-5. Additionally, family income cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level, equivalent to $62,400 annually for a household of four. If you applied for this program (with deadline in October 2024), you should already be receiving payments as of today.
Another unavoidable requirement of the program is the prohibition on receiving other guaranteed income from similar programs or any comparable state aid. If this happens, the Family First stimulus check payment is suspended.
2021 tax refunds: 1.1 million Americans race against time to claim them
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reported that more than 1.1 million taxpayers have unclaimed refunds corresponding to fiscal year 2021. Those who have not filed their federal return (Form 1040) for that period have until April 15, 2025 to request their money, with an average amount of $781.
If no action is taken by the deadline, the funds will go to the US Treasury. This call excludes specific credits, such as the Recovery Rebate Credit, which requires additional paperwork. The IRS emphasizes that even people with little or no income in 2021 could qualify, especially if they had taxes withheld or are eligible for tax benefits.
The agency reminds that, to start the process, taxpayers must gather documents such as W-2, 1098 or 1099 corresponding to 2021. Some states may require additional steps, so it is recommended to consult official platforms or seek advice from professionals.
To facilitate the process, the agency suggests:
- Download income transcripts directly from your portal.
- Use free tax filing software if you qualify.
- Contact authorized tax assistance centers for personalized support
While the Treasury holds these funds, the IRS reiterates that claiming them is a taxpayer’s right. All that is required is timely action and accuracy in documentation.
Stimulus checks of up to $2,612 for Alaska residents
Alaskans are eligible to receive the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), an annual payment given to those who maintain residency in the state. In 2023, the base amount of this dividend was $1,312, to which an energy support of $1,300 was added, resulting in a total of $2,612. By 2024, it is estimated that the dividend will range between $1,000 and $1,500, although the final figure will be announced at a later date.
The fundamental requirement to access this benefit is to have resided in Alaska for the entire previous calendar year. Those people who did not submit their application before March 31, 2024, the deadline already met, are excluded from receiving the dividend corresponding to this year.
