Social media posts, videos, and website headlines sharing information about fourth stimulus checks, a $6,400 subsidy, and stimulus payments for seniors prey on vulnerable Americans in need of financial assistance.

Most of these social media posts and videos are spreading misinformation, but there are legitimate government assistance programs for which you may qualify. Read on for the latest stimulus updates, assistance programs currently available, and qualification requirements.

Brad Reichert, founder of Reichert Asset Management LLC, warns consumers to use caution when researching stimulus funds. “Any website with a “.gov” in the address can be considered an official government-run website because this kind of web address can only be given to entities confirmed to be administered by a state or federal government,” Reichert explains.  

2024 Stimulus Check Updates

The government hasn’t shared any stimulus updates or new stimulus checks for 2024. However, you may qualify for benefits offered at the state level, such as tax rebates. Here’s what you need to know about the current status of different stimulus programs.

4th Stimulus Check for Social Security Recipients

Social media is rife with videos and posts sharing stimulus updates in 2023 and 2024 about the 4th stimulus check, even though it’s been three years since the third payment. Many of these posts are targeted to those on Social Security. There are no plans for a fourth round of direct payments for Social Security recipients or anyone else.

Other than the three Economic Impact Payments that were issued during the coronavirus pandemic, the government is not currently issuing any other stimulus payments related to the pandemic.

Stimulus Checks for Seniors

Senior citizens and those with disabilities are often the target of scams perpetrated by phone calls, text, or Email, and misinformation campaigns online or on TV. Other than the government assistance programs already in place for older Americans and those with disabilities, there are no other stimulus payments going out anytime soon.

Claims about additional benefits for seniors are often scams or due to the growth in “content farms,” where some websites often rely on AI-generated articles and share unreliable information from other sites without fact-checking.  

Fourth Stimulus Check for SSI Recipients

Similar claims have been shared on social media sites about ten states sending out stimulus checks to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. These stories are often shared by websites that share inconsistent information and have no attribution or transparency.

As we’ve listed above, the government is not issuing fourth stimulus checks for anyone, and there are no plans to do so in the future.  

Latest Stimulus Package

The stimulus program and benefits introduced under the CARES Act of 2020 have expired. No new stimulus packages have been introduced in 2024. However, you may still qualify for some financial assistance under the American Rescue Plan.

If you need financial assistance, including healthcare stimulus and benefits, we recommend exploring the American Rescue Plan and other federal and local benefit programs.

Stimulus Negotiations in Government

There are currently no new stimulus programs in government negotiations. The federal government’s focus has shifted toward economic recovery, so it’s unlikely for financial aid initiatives to be on Congress’ agenda.

While there are no federal stimulus payments available, state relief is an option to consider. Many states are offering tax relief to taxpayers in the form of rebates and tax credits, such as child tax credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. Here are a few examples:

  • Alabama stimulus checks: One-time tax rebates of $150-$300 for qualifying taxpayers.
  • Colorado stimulus checks: TABOR refunds of up to $1,600.
  • Pennsylvania stimulus checks: Up to $1,000 in property tax and rent rebates.

Are You Eligible for Stimulus Funds?

Most stimulus programs have eligibility criteria you’ll need to meet to qualify for a payment. Specific qualification requirements vary based on the program, but these are the general requirements for most programs:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien (aka, a Lawful Permanent Resident or Green Card holder)
  • File tax returns
  • Meet the program’s adjusted gross income (AGI) requirements
  • Not be dependent on someone else’s tax returns

Further qualification requirements may also include your tax filing status, such as whether you’re filing as a single filer, head of household, or married couple filing separately or jointly.

How To Apply for Stimulus Funds

While there are no stimulus updates about new programs, if you qualified for the Economic Impact Payments issued during the COVID-19 pandemic but haven’t received the full amount in your bank account, there’s still time to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.

The final date to file your return for the tax year 2020 and claim the credit is May 17, 2024. Once you file your tax return, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will issue a stimulus check automatically based on your income and eligibility.

You may receive the payment through direct deposit or paper check, depending on how you choose to receive your tax refund.

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Stay Informed About Stimulus Updates

While a stimulus check can be of great help during challenging times, don’t believe the information shared on social media. Rely on official government websites like IRS.gov and USAGov for stimulus updates.

If you’re in need of financial assistance, know that stimulus checks are only temporary help. The government offers a number of resources and programs to those facing hardship, such as rent assistance, unemployment insurance, and food benefits.