Stimulus Payments in 3 States – This is the Money You Can Get

While federal stimulus checks have ended, several states continue to provide direct payments to help residents tackle ongoing economic challenges and inflation. These rebates often promote sustainable energy choices, like purchasing electric vehicles or implementing clean energy solutions at home. So, which states still offer payments that Americans should look out for?

Check for Unclaimed Payments

First, make sure to check for any unclaimed stimulus payments from the 2020 tax year. If you haven’t yet filed your taxes for 2020, you had until this year’s May deadline to claim any recovery rebate or refund. Financial literacy instructor Alex Beene from the University of Tennessee at Martin noted, “The average unpaid refund is over $900, which can be quite helpful with the current inflation.”

Delaware

Delaware residents have another year to secure up to $2,500 in rebates for purchasing electric vehicles. The state’s Clean Transportation Incentive Program has been extended until April 30, 2025. This program provides financial support for buying plug-in hybrids or battery electric vehicles and has distributed around 5,500 rebates totaling $12.8 million since 2015.

However, starting this year, rebates are no longer available for vehicles using bi-fuel propane, dedicated propane, or natural gas. Professor Beene pointed out, “Focusing on electric vehicles ensures that financial incentives are more effectively targeted.”

Georgia

Atlanta residents can benefit from a $1,000 rebate for purchasing an e-bike this month. The application window for the one-week lottery opens on June 16, requiring proof of residency to qualify. Rebecca Serna from Propel ATL stated, “We are transforming Atlanta streets to be safe and accessible for all types of transportation.”

According to the Atlanta Regional Commission, this program aims to add 800 to 1,000 e-bikes to the city’s streets, reducing the carbon footprint and improving job access for low-income residents. Rebate amounts vary by income level, with 75% of the checks allocated to individuals earning $54,000 or less annually. These applicants can receive $1,500 for a standard e-bike and $2,000 for a cargo e-bike. Higher-income applicants will receive $500 for a standard e-bike and $1,000 for a cargo e-bike.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is extending the deadline for its Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, allowing residents to receive direct payments this month. This program, aimed at older Pennsylvanians and those living with disabilities, was initially set to expire on June 30 but has been extended by Governor Josh Shapiro for an additional six months. The maximum standard rebate has also increased from $650 to $1,000.

Professor Beene commented, “The extension likely means that not enough qualifying individuals are taking advantage of this incentive.” State Revenue Secretary Pat Browne reported that Pennsylvania has received 445,000 applications this year, 100,000 more than the same time last year, including nearly 80,000 first-time filers.

To qualify, applicants must be Pennsylvania residents aged 65 or older, widows aged 50 and older, or individuals with disabilities aged 18 and older. They must also rent or own a home in the state. Rebate amounts depend on income:

• $8,000 or less: $1,000
• $8,001 to $15,000: $770
• $15,001 to $18,000: $460
• $18,001 to $45,000: $380

While federal stimulus payments have ended, states like Delaware, Georgia, and Pennsylvania continue to provide targeted financial support to help residents navigate economic challenges. From electric vehicle rebates to e-bike incentives and property tax/rent rebates, these programs offer valuable assistance. Make sure to check if you qualify for any of these benefits and stay informed about deadlines and application requirements.

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