As of April 2025, talk of a new $800 stimulus check is everywhere. Social media posts, news headlines, and online rumors have made people wonder: “Is there really an $800 payment coming soon?”
Here’s the short answer: there is no official federal $800 stimulus approved right now. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing available. In fact, you could still receive up to $1,600 from Colorado’s TABOR refund or up to $1,400 from the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit—if you qualify and act before the deadline.
So, Is the $800 Stimulus Real?
Nope—not at the federal level. As of now, the IRS has not announced any new $800 stimulus checks for April 2025. Many of the posts or headlines you’ve seen are likely clickbait or misinterpreted news.
But don’t worry. There are still real ways to get money—especially if you live in Colorado or if you missed out on past federal stimulus payments.
Colorado TABOR Refund: Up to $1,600
One of the most promising opportunities to receive money in 2025 is through Colorado’s TABOR refund. Here’s what you need to know.
What is TABOR?
TABOR stands for Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights. It’s a Colorado law that says if the state collects more tax money than it needs, it must return the extra to the people.
In 2024, Colorado collected over $1.4 billion more than the spending limit. That means refunds are going out in 2025.
Who Can Get It?
To qualify, you must:
- Live in Colorado for at least half of 2024
- Be 18 or older by January 1, 2025
- File a 2024 Colorado tax return or a Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate application by April 15, 2025
How Much Will You Get?
- $800 for single filers
- $1,600 for joint filers
If you qualify and file on time, your refund should arrive by mid-summer 2025.
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IRS Recovery Rebate Credit: Up to $1,400
If you missed all or part of the third federal stimulus payment in 2021, you still have a shot to get that money—but the deadline is very close.
What Was the Third Stimulus?
In 2021, the government sent out $1,400 checks under the American Rescue Plan. Most people received them automatically. But if you didn’t, or only got a portion, you may still claim the full amount.
Who Can Still Claim It?
You may be eligible if:
- You didn’t get the full $1,400 in 2021
- You didn’t get any stimulus at all
- Your income was within these limits:
- Single: Less than $75,000
- Head of Household: Less than $112,500
- Married Filing Jointly: Less than $150,000
How to Claim It
- File a 2021 federal tax return
- Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
- Do this by April 25, 2025
Even if you had no income in 2021, you can still file and qualify.
You can file online using free tools like:
- IRS Free File
- TurboTax Free Edition
Make sure to report any amount you already received in 2021 so the IRS can calculate what you’re still owed.
How to Spot Fake Stimulus News?
Many websites or social media pages are posting about “new $800 checks” without any real proof. Here are signs a claim might be fake:
- No links to IRS.gov or state tax websites
- Vague headlines like “Check If You’re Getting $800 Now”
- No explanation of who qualifies or how to apply
- No deadlines or official announcements
Pro tip: Always check government sources like:
- IRS.gov
- Colorado Department of Revenue
How to Claim Your Refund or Credit?
Let’s make it simple:
To Claim the Colorado TABOR Refund:
- File your 2024 Colorado tax return
OR - Submit a Property/Rent/Heat Rebate application
- Deadline: April 25, 2025
- Refunds usually sent out by summer
To Claim the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit:
- File your 2021 federal tax return
- Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
- Deadline: April 25, 2025
- Use free filing tools if needed
If you’re unsure about whether you got the third stimulus or not, check your IRS online account to view your past payments.
Final Thoughts
While there isn’t a new $800 federal stimulus for April 2025, there are still real and valuable payments available—if you know where to look. Between Colorado’s TABOR refund and the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit, you could receive up to $3,000 in total.
But remember: these opportunities won’t last forever. The most important step is to file your tax returns (state and/or federal).
If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact a local tax professional or use trusted online filing services.
Stay smart, stay safe—and make sure you don’t miss out on money that’s rightfully yours