Stimulus checks became widely known in the United States during the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, millions of Americans lost jobs or experienced reduced income, and the federal government introduced direct payments to help families manage daily expenses. Although most of those nationwide stimulus programs ended years ago, some U.S. states continue to provide stimulus-style payments in the form of tax rebates or financial relief programs. These payments are usually funded by state budget surpluses and are intended to support residents who are dealing with higher living costs.

Why Some States Are Still Issuing Payments

Several states were able to offer additional financial relief because their budgets experienced significant surpluses after receiving federal pandemic aid. When states collected more revenue than expected, lawmakers decided to return some of that money to residents through tax rebates or economic relief programs. For example, Montana reported a budget surplus of about $1.9 billion for fiscal year 2022, while New Mexico’s surplus reached around $3.6 billion. These large surpluses created an opportunity for states to provide direct payments or tax refunds to eligible residents.

Idaho Stimulus-Style Rebates

Residents in Idaho may receive special rebate payments issued by the state government. Tax officials announced that approximately 800,000 rebates would be distributed, with a total value of up to $500 million. The payments are part of the Special Session Rebate program. Individuals who filed taxes on their own may receive around $300, while families who filed jointly may receive up to $600. To qualify, residents must have lived in Idaho throughout both 2020 and 2021.

Illinois Tax Relief Payments

Illinois has also issued financial relief payments through income and property tax rebates. Around six million residents were expected to receive these payments. The property tax rebate can reach up to $300 depending on eligibility. Income tax rebates include $50 for single taxpayers and up to $100 for couples filing jointly. Families with dependents may receive additional payments of up to $300.

Massachusetts Taxpayer Refund Program

Massachusetts introduced a tax refund program known as Chapter 62F. Through this initiative, about three million taxpayers received a portion of the state’s surplus revenue. The total value of these payments reached approximately $2.9 billion. Each eligible taxpayer received about 13 percent of their 2021 state income tax payment as a refund. Most residents have already received these payments after they were issued starting in October.

Montana and New Mexico Relief Programs

Montana homeowners may receive property tax rebates of up to $1,350 over a two-year period. To qualify, a homeowner must have lived in or owned a residence in Montana for at least seven months during the previous year and must have paid property taxes on that property.

New Mexico also distributed economic relief payments to low-income residents. About 26,000 individuals received payments ranging from $500 to $1,000. In addition, nearly one million residents received income tax rebates if they filed their tax returns.

Continued Economic Support

Even though the large federal stimulus programs have ended, some states continue to provide financial support using surplus funds. These programs help residents manage everyday expenses and also support local economies through increased consumer spending.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only as of 11 March 2026. Payment programs, eligibility requirements, and rebate amounts may change depending on state government decisions and tax regulations. Readers should check official state government websites for the most accurate and updated information regarding stimulus or rebate payments.