In 2025, the so-called “Golden State“, which is California implemented stimulus checks to mitigate economic effects such as inflation and high living costs. Among the initiatives are “Middle Class Refund 2.0” and “Sacramento Family First,” according to recent reports. Both programs seek to alleviate financial pressures on specific groups.
The Middle Class Tax Refund (MCTR) initiative is intended to alleviate the financial burden caused by inflation. It was originally launched in 2023, but a new round of payments was activated in 2025. Meanwhile, the Family First Economic Support Pilot (FFESP) is a guaranteed income program in Sacramento County that offers guaranteed monthly payments for 12 months to a select group of families.
How much money do these stimulus check programs provide?
The program, dubbed “Middle Class Refund 2.0,” effective April 30, 2025, offers payments ranging from $400 to $1,050 to residents who filed their taxes correctly in 2023 and who also meet income threshold requirements. Deposits for these stimulus payments have been extended until next week, with the last day being May 20.
The “Sacramento Family First” program, on the other hand, is a local pilot program that provides $725 per month to 200 households in Sacramento County. Launched in December 2024, it will continue through November 2025, prioritizing vulnerable families with young children or those affected by economic inequalities.
Who is eligible to claim stimulus payments?
To qualify for the Middle Class Refund 2.0, residents must have filed their 2023 tax return and meet income thresholds not publicly disclosed. Payments are distributed automatically via direct deposit or check, with no additional application required.
In the “Sacramento Family First” program, eligibility is based on low income, the presence of minors, and exclusion from previous assistance. Although it began in December 2024, there were delays, such as in March 2025, according to local records. Payments are made monthly until November 2025.
Both stimulus programs exclude all individuals who do not meet the geographic criteria or who do not have all their documents in order.
The “Middle Class Refund 2.0” program is statewide, benefiting eligible residents in any county. Distribution will end on May 20, with a limited window for receiving funds.
The “Sacramento Family First” program applies only to Sacramento County, reflecting a localized approach. Its longer duration seeks to financially stabilize families for almost a year.
Let’s look at the amounts of both programs compared as follows:
- The Middle Class Refund 2.0 program ranges from $400 to $1,050 and is available to eligible families throughout California. Payments are expected to be finalized to recipients by May 20, 2025.
- Sacramento Family First provides $725 payments to eligible families residing only in Sacramento County, California. The program began on December 15, 2024, and will end on November 15, 2025.
Lawmakers are considering expansions, but they require complex approvals and further legislative negotiations to implement new payment rounds. They must also find a way to finance them so as not to cause budget deficits.
