“No New Stimulus Checks” Debunking Persistent Online Rumors About Additional Payments
(Photo by Edward Pevos | MLive)
Despite persistent online rumors suggesting otherwise, there are no new stimulus checks on the horizon from either the IRS or the state of California. These rumors have become a recurring theme since the distribution of the last federal Economic Impact Payments ended in 2021. Sites capitalizing on these falsehoods have misled the public, suggesting imminent payouts ranging from $2,300 to $12,000, which have not only been factually incorrect but have also fueled unnecessary hope among those in financial need.
The IRS managed three rounds of stimulus checks during 2020 and 2021 to help Americans cope with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. These payments were crucial for many, but as the IRS confirms on its website, “The IRS is no longer issuing third Economic Impact Payments.” Individuals who did not receive their due payments had the opportunity to claim them as a recovery rebate credit during the applicable tax year, but that window has closed for new claims.
Similarly, California did provide state-level relief through two installments of its Golden State Stimulus and a Middle-Class Tax Refund issued as a debit card in 2022 and early 2023. However, a spokesperson for California’s Franchise Tax Board confirmed to Fast Company that there are no plans to issue another round of these payments.
It’s essential to differentiate between tax credits and stimulus checks. While tax credits such as the Child Tax Credit or the Earned Income Tax Credit can result in refunds or reductions in tax liability for eligible taxpayers, they are not direct stimulus payments aimed at economic revival. These credits are designed to assist with specific financial burdens and are calculated based on taxpayers’ annual filings.
The rumor mills continue to churn, especially in recent times, possibly exacerbated by AI technologies, making stories about supposed new stimulus checks a trending topic online. This trend raises not only false hopes but also highlights a misuse of digital platforms to generate traffic rather than disseminate helpful information.
With tax season having concluded for the year (the deadline was April 15), the emphasis now should be on accurate information dissemination. For those who filed late or are managing other tax-related concerns, it’s crucial to consult verified sources or directly communicate with tax authorities.
In sum, any claims about new rounds of stimulus checks from California or the federal government are unequivocally false. Taxpayers should stay informed through legitimate channels and remain skeptical of sensational claims that seem too good to be true, especially those proliferating through questionable online sources.
