States Send Financial Relief Amid Continued Economic Strain

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic, some states in the U.S. continue to provide financial help to residents facing ongoing economic challenges. In response to persistent inflation and rising living costs, these states are issuing one-time payments to support their citizens.

Following the pandemic, the federal government issued over 476 million economic impact payments totaling $814 billion between 2020 and 2021. However, as federal stimulus checks are no longer available, states like New York, California, and Colorado are stepping in to provide additional assistance in 2025.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently introduced the first-ever New York State Inflation Rebate, which allows eligible self-employed residents earning up to $150,000 annually to receive $300. Married couples filing jointly with incomes up to $300,000 can receive $500. The state budget has allocated funds for over 8 million residents, with checks starting to be mailed in late April and continuing through May.

California has also confirmed a new round of stimulus checks, providing payments of up to $725 to eligible households based on income and family size. Payments will be delivered via direct deposit or physical checks for those without a bank account.

In Colorado, the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) enables the state to distribute stimulus payments due to a $1.5 billion budget surplus. Single taxpayers may receive up to $800, while married couples filing jointly can get as much as $1,600. These payments aim to enhance purchasing power and support the local economy, and will be issued through direct deposit, paper checks, or prepaid debit cards.

As these states take action to address ongoing financial strain, residents continue to rely on these essential funds to help make ends meet.