Washington, D.C. — As 2025 unfolds, thousands of American taxpayers remain confused and hopeful about one question: “Is there still a chance to receive a stimulus check or overdue tax refund?” The short answer: the door has officially closed on federal stimulus payments—and it’s time to shift focus to your current tax refund.

Stimulus Check Deadline Has Passed

The IRS has confirmed that the final deadline to claim the third round of federal stimulus payments expired on April 15, 2025. That payment—up to $1,400 per person and per eligible dependent—was part of the COVID-era federal relief program.

If you didn’t file your 2021 tax return by that deadline (even with an extension), the unclaimed funds now legally revert to the U.S. Treasury. The same applies to the earlier two rounds:

• First stimulus (2020): $1,200 per adult + $500 per child
• Second stimulus (early 2021): $600 per adult + $600 per child
• Third stimulus (2021): $1,400 per adult + dependent

There is no way to claim these retroactively anymore, no matter your situation. The only path forward is to consult with the IRS directly or work with a trusted tax professional to determine if any current tax credits can be applied on your 2025 return.

No Fourth Stimulus Check—Despite Online Rumors

Speculation around a “fourth stimulus”—particularly one rumored to be worth $2,000 or more—continues to make the rounds on social media. But there is no legislation, no proposal in Congress, and no IRS plan to issue such a payment.

Earlier in 2025, former President Donald Trump discussed an idea in Miami involving a $5,000 “DOGE Dividend”—a taxpayer bonus supposedly funded by savings from an experimental “DOGE Department” led by Elon Musk. The plan never advanced, and Musk quietly exited the initiative. The proposed “dividend” has since been discredited and is not on any legislative agenda.

Bottom line: All signs point to no new federal stimulus checks this year.

What You Can Still Claim: 2025 Tax Refunds

The bright side? If you’ve already filed your 2024 tax return (in 2025), you could still be in line for a tax refund. Here’s how it works:

• Filed electronically with bank info? Expect your refund via direct deposit in about 21 days.
• Filed without direct deposit info? A check will be mailed in 6–8 weeks.

✅ Pro Tip: Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool at IRS.gov
You’ll need:

• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Filing status (e.g., Single, Married Filing Jointly)
• Exact refund amount

The tool provides real-time updates through three stages:

• Return Received
• Refund Approved (with estimated deposit date)
• Refund Sent

Final Reminder

If you’re still hoping for an old stimulus check, that window has closed for good. But that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. Stay focused on your 2025 tax return, monitor your refund status, and be cautious about false promises online.

When it comes to your money, facts—not rumors—will get your refund home safely.