Can You Get a Fourth Stimulus Check? Here's What You Need to Know

When COVID-19 disrupted the economy, stimulus payments provided critical relief to millions of Americans. Now, as some people continue struggling financially, questions about a fourth round of payments persist. Understanding the current landscape—both at federal and state levels—can help you determine if more money might be headed your way.

Why the Federal Government Likely Won’t Send Another Universal Payment Soon

The political and economic environment has shifted dramatically since the American Rescue Plan Act authorized the last stimulus distribution. Congress currently lacks both the procedural pathway and political consensus to pass another universal payment to all Americans before upcoming elections. The reconciliation process that enabled the previous bill can’t be used again until after the election cycle concludes, creating a significant hurdle.

Beyond legislative mechanics, inflation concerns have dampened enthusiasm for additional stimulus measures. Policymakers worry that injecting more federal money into the economy could worsen price pressures. Combined with the absence of widespread lockdowns or economic shutdowns, the rationale for emergency payments has weakened considerably in the eyes of many lawmakers across both parties.

Which Americans Might See Additional Federal Support?

While a blanket fourth stimulus check remains unlikely, parents have a stronger case for additional federal assistance. There’s genuine bipartisan interest in expanding the Child Tax Credit beyond its current structure. The American Rescue Plan Act previously increased this credit to $3,600 for children under six and $3,000 for children aged six to seventeen.

Though Republicans propose different mechanisms than Democrats for achieving tax relief for families, both sides recognize that targeted support for parents represents viable policy. This makes expanded child tax benefits the most plausible form of future federal stimulus, even if it won’t reach all taxpayers.

Your Best Bet: Check Your State

Here’s the reality: nearly half of U.S. states have already authorized their own stimulus payments or plan to do so. These state-level programs represent your most realistic opportunity for additional funds. However, eligibility requirements vary significantly depending on where you live.

Contact your state’s tax authority or elected representatives to learn whether payments are available in your jurisdiction and what conditions you must meet to qualify. State programs often target specific groups or have income thresholds, so individual circumstances matter.

Don’t Forget: You Might Already Be Owed Money

Even if future stimulus seems unlikely, you could still receive money you’re entitled to from prior rounds. The original stimulus payments were technically advances on a tax credit, meaning you can claim them on your federal return if you haven’t already done so.

If you missed filing a 2020 or 2021 tax return, the IRS still allows you to submit it retroactively without penalty (provided you didn’t actually owe taxes during those years). This represents a concrete opportunity many people overlook—you may already have unclaimed funds waiting.

The Bottom Line

A fourth stimulus check from federal authorities appears unlikely in the near term given current economic conditions and political constraints. However, state programs offer real possibilities, and you may have unclaimed funds from previous payments. Review your specific circumstances and contact relevant state authorities to maximize your chances of receiving assistance.