The rumor mill is churning with whispers of potential one-time federal relief payments, with some reports suggesting amounts as high as $1,390 per person. Understandably, this has sparked considerable interest and hope among Americans navigating ongoing economic uncertainties.

It's crucial to understand the context behind these rumors. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the US government implemented a series of economic impact payments, often referred to as "stimulus checks," to provide financial assistance to individuals and families and to stimulate economic activity. These payments played a significant role in helping many stay afloat during a challenging period.

Between 2020 and 2021, over 476 million economic impact payments, totaling a staggering $814 billion, were distributed across three rounds. These payments, ranging from $600 to $1,400 per individual, aimed to cushion the financial blow of the pandemic and boost consumer spending.

However, the era of these federal stimulus checks has effectively concluded. The deadline to claim the third stimulus check, for instance, passed on April 15, 2025. This means that direct federal payments specifically tied to pandemic-era relief are no longer available.

The current rumors circulating about a potential $1,390 payment are fueling hope, with some claiming that the money is intended to offer a helping hand to Americans during times of economic hardship. However, it is vital to approach these claims with caution.

As of now, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has not officially confirmed any plans for such a payment. It's essential to rely on official sources for accurate information regarding government programs and benefits.

To stay informed about potential government payments, individuals can utilize the "Get My Payment" tool on the official IRS website, located at irs.gov. While this tool won't confirm the existence of a non-existent program, it will display your payment status if a legitimate program is initiated.

If a program were to begin, it is crucial to ensure that your bank account information is up-to-date on the IRS website to avoid potential delays in receiving any payments. Accuracy in your information is key.

Unfortunately, rumors like these can attract scammers. Beware of fraudulent schemes involving fake forms and text messages promising substantial stimulus checks. Always verify information through official sources and never provide personal financial details to unverified contacts.

As of the latest reports, a package for an economic impact payment has not been approved by Congress, and there has been no official mention of a $1,390 stimulus check in President Biden's plans.

While the prospect of another federal stimulus check remains uncertain, there are alternative avenues through which Americans can potentially access financial assistance. Many states have implemented their own initiatives to provide relief to residents.

Several states have issued relief checks or rebate payments in an effort to support their residents' financial well-being. These state-level initiatives can provide valuable assistance to those who qualify.

For example, in New York, millions of eligible residents are receiving checks as part of the state's fiscal year 2026 budget. This program is distributing funds to over 8.2 million New Yorkers, with payments being issued over a period of several weeks.

To be eligible for these payments in New York, residents must meet specific requirements, including filing their 2023 tax return and not being claimed as a dependent on another person's return.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul championed these relief payments, arguing that New Yorkers needed financial support due to the high cost of living in the state. Her advocacy highlighted the importance of addressing affordability challenges for residents.

Governor Hochul explained that the state had collected more revenue than anticipated due to inflation, and she believed it was appropriate to return those funds to hardworking families in New York. This refund approach underscores a commitment to fiscal responsibility and supporting residents.

Other states, like Virginia, are also offering tax rebates to their residents. These rebates can provide hundreds of dollars in financial relief to eligible taxpayers.

In Virginia, individuals who filed their taxes individually may receive rebates of up to $200, while those who filed jointly could receive as much as $400. These rebates can provide a welcome boost to household finances.

Virginia's governor emphasized that the tax rebates reflected a commitment to returning surplus revenue to the taxpayers, stating that "it's your money, not the government's." This philosophy highlights a dedication to responsible fiscal management and empowering residents.

To be eligible for the Virginia tax rebate, taxpayers must have incurred tax liability in 2024 and filed their taxes by November 3, 2025. These requirements ensure that the rebates are targeted towards those who have contributed to the state's tax base.

These state-level initiatives demonstrate a commitment to providing financial support to residents and highlight the importance of exploring various avenues for potential assistance. While the future of federal stimulus checks remains uncertain, these state programs offer a tangible way for individuals and families to access much-needed financial relief. Always stay informed about potential government payment opportunities and check reliable sources for updated information.