Think stimulus checks are a thing of the past? Think again. Here's what remains active and how to claim it.
Since the early days of the pandemic, millions of Americans have relied on stimulus aid to make ends meet. While the large-scale federal payments of 2020 and 2021 made headlines, many people don’t realize that several forms of stimulus and economic relief are still available in 2025 — you just have to know where to look.
At CaresVista, we’ve tracked the evolution of these programs and compiled a list of what’s still open, what’s expired, and how you can take advantage of aid that’s still being distributed right now.
What’s Still Available in 2025
Although not labeled a "stimulus check," the EITC remains one of the most powerful forms of financial relief for low- to moderate-income workers — and recent expansions have made more people eligible than ever.
What’s New: Expanded age range and higher income limits
How Much: Up to $7,430 per household (depending on children and income)
Apply Through: Your annual tax return (free filing options available)
📌 Many people who qualify don’t claim it — especially single workers without kids.
While the expanded federal CTC has reverted to pre-pandemic levels, several states have launched their own monthly child tax credit programs, giving families ongoing support of up to $300/month per child.
Available In: California, Colorado, New York, Minnesota, and others
Eligibility: Based on income and number of children
Apply Through: State tax agencies or benefit portals
📌 These credits are often “refundable,” meaning you get the money even if you owe no taxes.
Many localities still have funds left over from the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program, especially in rural areas and small cities.
What’s Covered: Past-due rent, utilities, and legal fees
Who’s Eligible: Renters facing hardship since March 2020
Apply Through: Your city or county housing office
📌 Funds are distributed locally — availability varies, but millions are still unclaimed.
While student loan repayments resumed in 2023, several new federal and state-level forgiveness pathways have launched since then, especially for public service workers, low-income borrowers, and those defrauded by institutions.
Available Programs: SAVE Plan, PSLF enhancements, state-specific forgiveness
Apply Through: StudentAid.gov or your loan servicer
📌 Some borrowers now qualify for $0 monthly payments under new income-driven plans.
Across the country, cities and counties are experimenting with guaranteed income pilots — programs that provide direct cash payments to low-income residents with no strings attached.
Examples:
Chicago Resilient Communities Pilot: $500/month for a year
Los Angeles Breathe Program
Austin’s Guaranteed Income for Housing Insecure Families
How to Apply: Local application portals (often via lottery)
📌 Eligibility is usually based on income, family size, and geographic location.
Though federal SNAP emergency allotments ended nationally, many states have added their own boosts or special supplements to address food insecurity.
What’s Available: EBT boost programs, Double Up Food Bucks, summer meal support
Where: Check with your state’s Department of Human Services
📌 Some families may qualify for summer EBT payments for school-aged children.
To clear up confusion, here are some programs that have officially ended — but often have similar replacements at the state or local level:
❌ Federal Economic Impact Payments (Stimulus Checks): Ended after 2021
❌ Federal Expanded Unemployment Benefits: Ended in September 2021
❌ Pandemic EBT (P-EBT): Most states ended this program after 2023
❌ Student Loan Pause: Payments resumed in 2023, but new repayment options are available
The biggest mistake people make today? Assuming they don’t qualify, or that “it’s all over.” That couldn’t be further from the truth. Relief still exists — but it's more decentralized and harder to track down than ever.
That’s where CaresVista comes in. We scan hundreds of public assistance and stimulus programs and match you with the ones most relevant to your situation — income, age, location, dependents, and more.
Want to know when a new stimulus payment drops in your city? Or if your state launches a new housing program? Join our growing community and get:
Early alerts on new funding programs
Application tips and deadline reminders
Real-time updates when eligibility rules change
A direct link to apply when new aid opens
🚀 [Sign up here] to stay informed and never miss another opportunity.