In 2021, the issuance of stimulus checks by the United States government came to a halt. However, the persistent impact of inflation on US households prompted several states to step in and assist residents in need. Certain states implemented tax refund programs to address the financial burden resulting from escalating prices. Others introduced direct payments to alleviate the impact on family budgets. Here is a list of states that enacted laws or programs to provide extra financial relief this year.
Next, we will answer the following questions on which states will be offering stimulus checks in 2023:
- What assistance programs support residents affected by inflation in California?
- How can Pennsylvania residents determine their eligibility for the rebate program?
- What is Massachusetts doing to provide financial relief to its residents?
- What is the refund program in Idaho?
- How is Maine offering additional economic relief to residents?
- How can New Jersey residents check their eligibility for the property tax rebate program?
What assistance programs support residents affected by inflation in California?
If you live in Los Angeles County, California, you might qualify for a special program called Breathe, which offers monthly payments of $1,000 for two years. To be eligible, you need to meet the following requirements:
- be a resident of Los Angeles County
- be between 21 and 24 years old (as of September 1, 2023)
- have been in foster care until at least the age of 18 or even longer
- and have an income equal to or less than 100% of the area’s average income for a single-person household or 120% for a household with two or more people.
From June 20 to July 3, you can apply for the program online through the Breathe Program’s website to receive the stimulus checks.
How can Pennsylvania residents determine their eligibility for the rebate program?
If you are a Pennsylvania resident at least 65 years of age, a widow(er) at least 50, or a person with disabilities at least 18 years old, you might be able to apply for a refund with the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program. The annual income limit is $35,000 for homeowners and $15,000 for renters. The estimated payments are:
- $250 to $650 for qualifying homeowners
- $500 or $650 for eligible renters
- up to $975 for certain senior citizens.
To file your rebate application online with MyPath, click here.
What is Massachusetts doing to provide financial relief to its residents?
In Massachusetts, taxpayers receive a refund of 14% of their 2021 personal income tax liability. Individuals who filed their 2021 tax return before October 17th of last year received their refund in December. However, if you haven’t filed yet, you’re still eligible if you file by September 15, 2023, and you should receive your refund about a month after filing through the mail or direct deposit.
What is the refund program in Idaho?
In 2022, Idaho implemented a rebate program to offer financial relief to residents. The refund amount is determined based on the taxpayer’s 2020 income tax bill and a fixed amount that varies based on marital status. For single filers, the fixed amount is $300, while for joint filers, it is $600. The rebate payments will be distributed throughout 2023, corresponding to when Idaho residents filed their tax returns in 2022. This program is part of Idaho’s broader efforts to support individuals and families in need, aiming to reduce financial stress and boost the local economy.
How is Maine offering additional economic relief to residents?
Maine residents who filed their 2021 state tax returns before October 31, 2022, may be eligible for a new “Winter Energy Relief Payment.” The payment is $450 for single filers and $900 for joint filers. To qualify, the federal adjusted gross income (AGI) reported on the 2021 Maine tax return should be below $100,000 for single taxpayers and married couples filing separately, $150,000 for heads of household, or $200,000 for joint returns. This payment aims to provide relief for the high winter energy expenses. It is available to Maine residents who live in the state full-time.
How can New Jersey residents check their eligibility for the property tax rebate program?
New Jersey introduced a property tax rebate program to provide financial relief to homeowners and renters struggling with the high cost of living. The amount of the rebate varies based on income and property ownership:
- Homeowners earning up to $150,000 can receive a rebate of $1,500, while those earning between $150,000 and $250,000 are eligible for a $1,000 rebate.
- Renters with incomes below $150,000 can receive a $450 discount.
Additionally, eligible New Jersey residents qualify for $500 for every ITIN holder listed on their tax return under the ITIN program, according to the state tax guide.
In conclusion, stimulus checks are payments from the government to help people during difficult times and boost the economy. While some states are not offering traditional stimulus checks, they provide alternative forms of economic relief. These include tax refund programs, direct payments, and rebate programs. These initiatives aim to support individuals and families facing financial challenges and alleviate the impact of inflation.
