As October 2024 rolls in, many Americans are asking if there’s going to be a fourth round of federal stimulus checks.
While a new federal stimulus payment isn’t expected, various states are stepping in with targeted relief programs, including tax rebates, direct payments, and other financial aid.
This article breaks down which states are providing payments, eligibility criteria, payment schedules, and more.
No Federal Stimulus Check , But States Step In
The federal government has not announced any plans for a fourth stimulus check in October 2024. However, several states are offering relief programs aimed at supporting their residents through rising costs due to inflation and economic challenges.
These payments vary by state, with some issuing tax rebates while others offer direct payments tied to state budget surpluses or specific assistance programs.
States Offering Cash Payments in October 2024
Several states are providing direct cash payments or rebates in October 2024. Here’s a detailed look at which states are offering what, including eligibility requirements.
1. Alaska: $3,200 Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)
Alaska residents are benefiting from one of the largest payments in the country, a $3,200 payment from the state’s Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). The PFD is funded by profits from Alaska’s oil and mineral industries, helping residents offset the state’s high cost of living. The eligibility criteria include:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Alaska for at least one year.
- Clean criminal record: Applicants must have a clean legal record.
Alaska’s payment this year includes an additional $650 energy relief payment, adding significant value to residents facing high heating and energy costs.
2. California: Middle-Class Tax Refund
California’s Middle-Class Tax Refund continues into 2024, offering relief to residents. Payments are targeted at middle-income households, and eligible Californians can receive:
- $350 for individuals earning under $75,000.
- Families with dependents can receive additional payments, totaling up to $1,050.
These payments are part of California’s efforts to help residents manage inflation and housing costs.
3. Colorado: TABOR Payments
In Colorado, residents will receive payments through the state’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) program, which issues rebates when the state has a budget surplus. In 2024, eligible residents can expect:
- $847 for single filers.
- $1,694 for joint filers.
These payments are being distributed in early fall and provide relief for residents amid rising living costs.
4. Virginia: Tax Rebates
Virginia is offering tax rebates to residents who filed their state income tax returns for 2023. The rebate amounts are as follows:
- $250 for individuals.
- $500 for joint filers.
Eligibility is based on having a tax liability in the previous year, and payments are distributed via direct deposit or paper checks.
5. Minnesota: $1,300 Walz Checks
Minnesota is providing one-time payments to about 2.5 million households as part of a $3 billion tax relief package signed into law by Governor Tim Walz. The payments include:
- $1,300 for married couples filing jointly with an adjusted gross income of $150,000 or less.
- $650 for individuals with an income under $75,000.
6. South Carolina: Tax Rebates
South Carolina is offering tax rebates based on income, similar to other states. Eligible residents can expect:
- $800 for single filers.
- $1,600 for joint filers.
The rebate amount depends on the state tax liability from previous years.
Additional Financial Aid Programs in October 2024
In addition to the stimulus payments, many states are providing other forms of financial aid, including tax credits, scholarships, and energy relief programs. For example:
- Maine offers energy relief payments to residents struggling with heating costs.
- Michigan has expanded its Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), providing tax rebates to working families with low to moderate incomes.
- Idaho is issuing tax rebates as part of its surplus relief program, where residents can receive payments based on their state income tax returns.
State Payments in October 2024
| State | Program | Payment Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) | $3,200 | Alaska resident for 1+ year, clean criminal record |
| California | Middle-Class Tax Refund | Up to $1,050 | Income below $75,000, families with dependents |
| Colorado | TABOR Payments | $847 – $1,694 | Based on state budget surplus |
| Virginia | Tax Rebates | $250 – $500 | Filed 2023 state income tax returns |
| Minnesota | Walz Checks | $650 – $1,300 | Income below $150,000 (joint filers) |
| South Carolina | Tax Rebates | $800 – $1,600 | Based on state tax liability |
Conclusion
While there is no fourth federal stimulus check in October 2024, many states are stepping up to provide targeted financial relief through tax rebates, direct payments, and other aid programs.
From Alaska’s $3,200 Permanent Fund Dividend to Colorado’s TABOR payments, these programs are designed to help residents navigate rising living costs. Be sure to check your state’s official website to confirm eligibility and payment schedules.
FAQs
1. Will there be a fourth federal stimulus check in October 2024?
No, there are no plans for a fourth federal stimulus check at this time. However, several states are providing targeted relief through tax rebates and direct payments.
2. Which states are issuing payments in October 2024?
States like Alaska, California, Colorado, Virginia, Minnesota, and South Carolina are issuing payments to eligible residents in October.
3. How much is Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend in 2024?
Alaska’s PFD is $3,200, including an additional $650 energy relief payment.
4. Who qualifies for Colorado’s TABOR payments?
TABOR payments are distributed to residents based on the state’s budget surplus. Single filers receive $847, while joint filers receive $1,694.
5. How can I check my eligibility for these state payments?
Eligibility varies by state. Most payments are based on income and residency requirements. Check your state’s official website for specific details.
References
- Civics First: “2024 Stimulus Payments and Tax Rebates Across the U.S.”
- Kiplinger: “Which States Are Sending Rebate Payments”
- VAB.org: “4th Round of Stimulus Checks in October? Not At All, But There’s a Cash Rain in These States”
- Stambroise.org: “States Issuing Stimulus Checks in October 2024”
