Almost like water in the desert, Americans eagerly hope for extra payments through stimulus checks this new year. This sentiment stems from the delicate economic situation that the United States is experiencing, which creates certain expectations among citizens. However, the truth is that there are no federal programs confirming that any type of widespread stimulus check will be issued in 2026, but there will be additional payments coming from different sources.
On one hand, higher refunds will be received from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and its tax adjustments. We must not forget the 2.8% increase in the Cost Of Living Adjustment (COLA) that will be applied to checks for retirement, disability, or SSI beneficiaries. In addition, at the state level, assistance continues to be offered in the form of fixed refunds, refundable credits, and one-time support, as has occurred and is expected to continue in California, Colorado, New Mexico and Minnesota, among other states.
Stimulus checks for 2026?
At least for the moment, the new year 2026 does not have any confirmed federal programs through which Americans will receive any type of financial aid in the form of a stimulus check. This is an economic relief that many are eagerly awaiting, but the truth is that no news has been announced in this regard. However, that doesn’t mean that additional payments that provide some relief won’t take place, especially for those individuals and families who are in more vulnerable situations.
Immediate alternatives and financial aid at the state level
Although the federal government has not announced its intention to issue mass stimulus checks, there are other ways in which Americans can receive financial support this year.
IRS refunds
This new year 2026 comes with tax refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and its tax adjustments and updates to tax credits. Although tax refunds are nothing new, the amount you receive may vary due to these new changes. If a large amount of money was withheld from you throughout 2025, you could see a refund ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)
Approved at the end of last year, 2025, the new Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) percentage is 2.8%. This translates to an automatic increase of around $56 in the monthly checks for Social Security retirement, disability, or SSI beneficiaries.
State aids
Many states will continue offering aid and programs such as tax refunds, refundable credits, and one-time support, in addition to the federal government’s stimulus checks. This aid is usually aimed at people with low to moderate incomes, providing relief for those most affected by inflation. Some of the states that will continue this practice are California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Minnesota.
Frequently asked questions
Will there be a new federal stimulus check this year?
There is no confirmed federal program to send out massive stimulus checks in 2026. Although many people are expecting them, the government has not announced any new national-level aid of this kind.
What benefits will retirees and SSI recipients receive?
They will get an automatic 2.8% increase in their monthly payments thanks to the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This amounts to, on average, about an extra $56 in each check to offset inflation.
Are there other ways to receive extra money?
Yes, through higher IRS tax refunds due to new tax adjustments. Additionally, states like California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Minnesota will continue offering their own local aid and refundable credits.