You may have seen headlines or social media posts talking about a $725 stimulus in June—but what’s really going on? Is there a new federal check on the way, or is it just hype? The short answer: while there’s no national $725 stimulus, there are real programs offering cash support. You just need to know where to look.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the $725 figure refers to, who qualifies for it, and how you might still be eligible for other payments, including a $1,400 federal credit that many people missed.
Overview
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Stimulus Amount | $725/month (California program), $1,400 (federal rebate credit) |
| Key States Involved | California, Colorado, plus national programs |
| Deadline | Federal: June 15, 2025; CA program closed Oct 13, 2024 |
| Eligibility | Depends on income, location, and filing status |
| Where to Apply | IRS.gov for federal programs, state websites for local programs |
$725 June Stimulus
There is no national $725 stimulus check being mailed to everyone. The $725 figure comes from Sacramento, California’s “Family First” pilot program, which started in December 2024. It gives 100 selected families $725 per month for a year.
This is a guaranteed income pilot—not a federal stimulus. The goal is to study how no-strings cash payments affect health, financial security, and parenting.
At the same time, the IRS is offering another way to get money: the Recovery Rebate Credit. If you missed out on the third stimulus check in 2021, worth $1,400, you can still claim it by filing a 2021 tax return by June 15, 2025.
$1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit
The Recovery Rebate Credit lets you claim stimulus money you didn’t get in 2020 or 2021. Many people were eligible for checks but missed out due to filing errors or not filing at all.
How much is it?
- First Round: $1,200 (2020)
- Second Round: $600 (2021)
- Third Round: $1,400 (2021)
Right now, the IRS is focusing on the third-round credit—the $1,400 check from 2021.
Who qualifies?
You may be eligible if you:
- Had income under $75,000 (single), $150,000 (married), or $112,500 (head of household)
- Filed a 2021 tax return or can still file
- Are a U.S. citizen or resident alien
- Were not claimed as someone else’s dependent
Even people with no income may qualify if they meet the residency and filing requirements.
How to Claim Your Stimulus
- Gather your tax documents
W-2s, 1099s, Social Security statements—anything related to your 2021 income. - Go to IRS.gov
Use the Free File tool if your income was under $73,000. It’s free and secure. - Complete a 2021 tax return
Use Form 1040 and fill in Line 30 for the Recovery Rebate Credit. - Submit your return
File electronically or by mail. After submission, use “Where’s My Refund?” to track your payment.
Important deadline
That’s the final date to file your 2021 return and claim the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit.
California’s $725 Program
California’s Family First Sacramento program offers $725 per month to 100 selected families. The application deadline was October 13, 2024, and is now closed.
Eligibility included:
- Resident of certain zip codes in Sacramento County
- Parent or guardian of a child aged 0 to 5
- Income under 200% of the federal poverty level
- Identified as Black, African American, American Indian, or Native American
While this program is no longer accepting applications, it has inspired similar guaranteed income programs across the U.S.
Other State-Specific Stimulus Help
Colorado is offering refunds of up to $800 as part of its Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR). You must have filed a 2023 Colorado state tax return by June 15, 2024 to qualify.
Other States
- New York: Property tax and rent relief
- Illinois: Child tax credits and school-related benefits
- Washington: Working Families Tax Credit for eligible low- and middle-income households
Check your state’s official websites for programs related to tax relief or direct payments.
Why This Matters
With inflation affecting daily costs like groceries, gas, and rent, programs like these provide meaningful relief. Whether it’s a refundable tax credit or a monthly payment, these funds help people stay stable and reduce debt.
Knowing how to apply, where to check your eligibility, and staying updated on deadlines is the key to claiming the support you deserve.
Pro tip
Help spread the word to others in your community—neighbors, friends, or family—who may not know they qualify. Sometimes people miss out simply because they didn’t check.
FAQs
Is the $725 June stimulus a federal payment?
No, it’s a local pilot in Sacramento, not a national program.
Can I still get the $1,400 stimulus check?
Yes, if eligible, file a 2021 tax return by June 15, 2025.
How do I claim the Recovery Rebate Credit?
Use IRS Form 1040 and complete Line 30 when filing your 2021 taxes.
Who qualified for the Sacramento $725 payment?
Low-income families with young children in select zip codes.
Where can I find state-level stimulus help?
Visit your state’s Department of Revenue or Human Services website.
