If you’re feeling left out or wondering if you missed your chance to receive a stimulus payment—you’re not alone. With so many programs rolling out at different times across federal and state levels, it’s easy to get confused or think you’ve been forgotten. But here’s the truth: you may still be eligible to claim financial support in August 2025.
Whether you’re unemployed, low-income, or simply missed a past opportunity, don’t give up. Here are 5 powerful ways you can still claim a stimulus payment this month and ease some of the pressure you’ve been carrying.
1. File or Amend Your 2021 or 2022 Tax Return
Many stimulus payments—especially the $1,390 Recovery Rebate Credit—are based on past tax returns. If you:
- Didn’t file in 2021 or 2022
- Filed with incorrect or missing information
- Changed income status during COVID
You may still qualify for backdated payments. You can file or amend your return through the IRS. The sooner you do it, the sooner your payment can be processed.
Visit: www.irs.gov
2. Use the IRS “Get My Payment” Tool
If you’re unsure whether you’re owed money, the IRS “Get My Payment” tool is your go-to source. It helps you:
- Track past and upcoming payments
- See if your info is up to date
- Get updates on direct deposit status
Many people who thought they were ineligible actually had funds waiting—they just never checked.
3. Apply for State Relief Programs
Several states are offering one-time payments or ongoing stimulus relief in August 2025. Even if you missed a deadline earlier this year, some states have extended deadlines or opened new rounds.
Confirmed examples:
- Alaska: $1,702 PFD for qualified residents
- Colorado, New Jersey, Georgia: Up to $1,750 in aid for middle and low-income households
- Illinois & California: Limited bonus checks for unemployed residents
Check your state’s official government website for current application status.
4. Claim Unemployment-Linked Stimulus Benefits
If you’re unemployed or underemployed, you may qualify for:
- State unemployment programs
- Supplemental relief payments (available in states like New York and California)
- Job search incentive grants
Even if you previously received unemployment, new programs or bonus payments may now be available.
Don’t miss out—visit your state’s Department of Labor and apply under your correct benefit category.
5. Check Eligibility for SNAP, Rental Aid, or Medicaid-Linked Stimulus
Some states and counties provide stimulus-style payments through welfare-linked programs, such as:
- SNAP (Food Stamps) with bonus cash back
- Emergency rental or utility relief
- Health insurance subsidies with refunds or cost-of-living payments
If you’ve recently been approved for Medicaid, food benefits, or low-income housing, you might already qualify for an automatic payment—you just need to claim it.
You’re not forgotten. The system might be complicated, and it may feel like others have already received help—but your chance has not passed. Whether it’s through a late tax filing, a state program, or an unemployment-linked relief plan, there are still ways to get the support you need in August 2025.
Take a deep breath, check your options, and take action today. Help is still available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I still claim a stimulus check if I didn’t file taxes before?
Yes. File your 2021 or 2022 return ASAP to see if you’re eligible for back payments.
Q2. What if I moved or changed banks?
Update your address and bank info at www.irs.gov to avoid delays.
Q3. Are there still state stimulus checks available?
Yes—several states are sending payments this August. Visit your state’s official .gov site for current programs.
Q4. Can I get more than one payment?
Yes, it’s possible to receive both a federal payment and a state-level check, depending on your eligibility.
Q5. Is it too late to claim earlier missed payments?
No. You can still claim missed payments through the Recovery Rebate Credit until April 2026.
