Stimulus checks have become an important way for American families to manage financial stress during difficult times. From the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic to the inflation struggles that followed, direct cash payments from the government have helped many people cover their daily expenses.
While the federal government has mostly stopped sending out new rounds of stimulus checks, some U.S. states have continued their own support programs. These state-level efforts are using budget surpluses or leftover funds from earlier relief plans to help residents who are still facing financial difficulties.
Right now, three U.S. states—Colorado, California, and Pennsylvania—are offering fresh stimulus-style payments to certain eligible groups. These payments come with specific rules and target vulnerable groups like low-income families, senior citizens, and people with disabilities.
Let’s break down what each state is offering, who qualifies, how much money is involved, and what this means for the future of state-level support in America.
1. Colorado: TABOR Refund Program
In Colorado, residents are receiving money through the TABOR Refund, which comes from the state’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights. This law requires the state government to return extra tax revenue to the people.
How much is being paid?
- Individuals can receive $800
- Couples who file taxes jointly can receive $1,600
Who qualifies?
You must have filed your 2024 state tax return to be eligible. There’s no separate application required—just make sure your taxes are submitted.
When will the money come?
The payments will be sent out between March and June 2025, depending on when your return is processed.
This refund is especially helpful at a time when prices for basic goods like food, gas, and housing remain high. It’s a one-time payment, but it’s meant to make a noticeable difference in household budgets.
2. California: First the Family Pilot Program
California is known for running pilot programs to test out new ideas. One such program is the First the Family Pilot, a monthly cash support plan aimed at young families.
How much is being paid?
Eligible families can receive $725 every month.
Who qualifies?
- Families with children aged 0 to 5 years
- Must live in select zip codes in Los Angeles, Fresno, or San Bernardino
This is not a statewide program yet. It’s being tested in specific communities to see how effective it is in helping young families manage the costs of raising children. If the program works well, it could be expanded across more regions in the future.
Families selected for the program don’t just receive money—they also get access to resources and support services. This makes the program more than just a cash handout. It’s an investment in the early years of a child’s life, which research shows can have long-term benefits.
3. Pennsylvania: Property Tax and Rent Relief Program
Pennsylvania is focusing on helping older adults and people with disabilities manage housing costs through its Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program.
How much is being paid?
Qualified residents can receive up to $800.
Who qualifies?
- Homeowners earning less than $35,000 annually
- Renters earning less than $15,000 annually
- Must be a senior (65+) or have a disability
The goal is to reduce the pressure of housing expenses, which often take up a big part of people’s income. With housing prices and rent steadily rising, this rebate is meant to offer some breathing room for those who need it most.
This program has existed for some time but was recently updated to offer more money and broaden its eligibility.
Why State-Level Stimulus Matters in 2025
Even though the national government has stepped back from large-scale relief payments, state governments are continuing to step up. These local efforts recognize that many Americans are still struggling with the after-effects of the pandemic, rising inflation, and a challenging job market.
What makes these programs powerful is how targeted they are. Instead of giving the same amount of money to everyone, these programs focus on people who need the most help—such as:
- Low-income families
- Senior citizens on fixed incomes
- People with disabilities
- Households with young children
These are the groups most affected by the rising cost of living, and these state-run programs are designed to offer meaningful relief.
Not Everyone Is Eligible—But Awareness Still Helps
It’s important to note that not every American will qualify for these payments. Since these are state-specific programs, you must be a resident of that state to apply. Also, each program has its own rules and income limits.
However, just knowing that these programs exist is helpful. People can check with their local government to see if similar support is available. In many cases, residents miss out on benefits simply because they don’t know about them.
Staying informed means you can act quickly when new programs are announced, and it can also help friends or family who may qualify but aren’t aware of what’s available.
Could More States Follow This Path?
If these programs in Colorado, California, and Pennsylvania show positive results—such as increased stability, improved child welfare, or reduced housing stress—it’s likely that other states will consider launching similar support systems.
We’ve seen this before. In the past, when one state tries something new and it works well, others often follow. States share ideas, especially when budgets allow for surplus spending or when public demand for relief increases.
That means more direct cash programs could roll out in the coming months and years, especially in states with high living costs or where large portions of the population are economically vulnerable.
What You Should Do Now
If you live in any of these three states, here’s what you should do:
- Colorado residents: Make sure to file your 2024 state taxes on time. That’s your ticket to getting the TABOR refund.
- California residents: Check if your zip code is part of the pilot program. If yes, you can apply and receive monthly payments if eligible.
- Pennsylvania residents: If you’re a senior or disabled, apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program through the official state website or local office.
If you don’t live in these states, keep an eye on your state’s announcements. Relief may be coming your way soon.
Final Thoughts
In today’s economy, where prices continue to rise but wages remain largely stagnant for many, these state-level stimulus checks are a sign of hope. They remind us that local governments can play a powerful role in supporting citizens—not just during a crisis, but in everyday life.
If more states step up with creative and targeted solutions like these, it could mean a more secure and stable future for millions of Americans.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
Jon King is an experienced journalist with 3 years of experience in the field. With a strong background in investigative reporting, Jon is known for his in-depth coverage of crime news, finance news, local news, and USA news. Currently working with Mikeandjonpodcast, Jon brings his sharp investigative skills, where he provides timely updates and analysis on a wide range of topics. His commitment to delivering accurate and impactful news has earned him a reputation for providing insightful and comprehensive stories that resonate with his audience.
