Which States Are Distributing Payments to Residents in 2025? California, Colorado, and New York Lead the Way

While federal stimulus checks ended years ago, three states are stepping up in 2025 to provide financial relief to residents grappling with ongoing inflation and rising living costs. These state-level payments represent a direct effort to support households and boost consumer spending power during economic uncertainty.

Colorado’s TABOR Refunds: Up to $1,600 for Couples

Colorado is distributing the largest per-household payments, thanks to a $1.5 billion state fiscal surplus. Single taxpayers can receive up to $800, while married couples filing jointly qualify for payments reaching $1,600. These distributions stem from Colorado’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) mechanism.

To qualify for a Colorado payment, residents must meet specific criteria: Have filed 2023 state tax returns by April 15, 2024; maintained Colorado residency for at least one year; been 18 years old and resided in the state for a minimum of 183 days during the fiscal year; and have no outstanding tax obligations or serious criminal records. Eligible recipients can receive funds through direct deposit, paper checks, or prepaid debit cards, providing flexibility in payment delivery methods.

California’s Golden State Stimulus: Up to $725 Per Household

California is California getting a stimulus check from the state? Yes—eligible households can receive payments up to $725 depending on their income level and family size. These payments are designed to help residents manage the financial pressures created by persistent inflation.

Applicants must satisfy several requirements to qualify: Maintain annual income within the program’s specified thresholds; be registered as California residents and have filed a recent state tax return; and have not received assistance in earlier phases of the Golden State Stimulus program, which gives priority to first-time recipients. The state will process payments via direct deposit for households with banking information on file, or by mailing physical checks to those without existing account records.

New York’s Inflation Refund: $300 to $500 Payments

New York Governor Kathy Hochul championed the state’s inaugural Inflation Refund program, which has now distributed payments to over 8 million residents as part of the fiscal year 2026 budget. Single taxpayers earning up to $150,000 annually receive $300, while joint filers earning up to $300,000 receive $500.

“Because of inflation, New York has generated unprecedented revenues through the sales tax—now, we’re returning that cash back to middle-class families,” Governor Hochul stated. The one-time refunds acknowledge that “the cost of living is still too damn high” and aim to provide financial breathing room for New Yorkers. Distribution began in late April 2025 and continued throughout May, reaching millions of state households with direct financial support tied to inflation-driven revenue surpluses.

Eligibility and Payment Timing

Each state structures its payments differently, reflecting unique fiscal situations and policy goals. However, common themes emerge: income caps ensure benefits reach middle-class residents, residency requirements maintain state focus, and tax filing history serves as verification. Payment methods vary from direct deposits to physical checks and prepaid debit cards, accommodating different banking preferences across households.

These 2025 distributions represent a significant state-level response to economic pressures that federal programs no longer address. Residents in these states should review specific eligibility requirements and watch for official distribution timelines to ensure they receive entitled payments.