There is news of relief for you. If you are worried about the rising inflation and expenses of 2025, then because no new stimulus check or any help amount has come from the central government i.e. the federal government yet, but many states of America have come forward on their own and announced to give financial help to their citizens.
There are many states in America which are now going to give a monthly stimulus check of $500 per month so that common people can get some help in their daily expenses like rent, food, children’s education and electricity and water bills. This can give them some relief.
In this article, we will tell you what this scheme is, how it works and which states are giving this money.
What is Monthly Stimulus or Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI)?
Guaranteed Basic Income i.e. GBI is a scheme in which the government gives a fixed amount to the eligible people every month, that too without any condition. It does not see whether you are doing a job or not, or how you spent the money. The only purpose is to provide financial stability to the needy people.
This scheme is considered especially beneficial for those who:
- Are living on low income
- Are single parents
- Work part-time
- Or who have suddenly been burdened with expenses
States took action, not the federal government
When COVID-19 spread in 2020 and 2021, the federal government sent stimulus checks directly to people’s accounts three times. These were as follows:
- First round (2020 – CARES Act): $1,200
- Second round (late 2020): $600
- Third round (2021 – American Rescue Plan): $1,400
This money provided a lot of support to people during lockdown and unemployment. But no new help has come from the Center so far in 2025. Therefore, now some states have decided to provide this relief from their own budget.
Which states are giving this monthly assistance?
1. California
California is already experimenting with GBI. In 2025, the state has announced that it will give an amount ranging from $500 to $725 every month to some eligible citizens.
Eligibility depends on:
- Your 2024 tax filing
- How many members are in your family
- The number of your dependents
2. New York
A relief plan is also being prepared in New York. If the proposal is passed, about 86 lakh people can get an amount of $300 to $500. This money is expected to come by Fall 2025 (September–November).
3. Georgia and Illinois
GBI programs are already being run on a small scale in these states. They are likely to expand in 2025, so that more people can take advantage.
GBI Programs
| State/City | Program Name | Monthly Amount | Duration | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA | Breathe | $1,000 | 3 years | 1,000 families |
| Chicago, IL | Resilient Communities | $500 | 1 year | 5,000 residents |
| Ithaca, NY | Caregiver Pilot | $600 | 18 months | Unpaid caregivers |
| Cook County, GA | Promise Program | $500 | 2 years | 3,250 households |
How to know if you are eligible for this scheme?
If you also want to know whether you are eligible for these monthly assistance schemes or not, then follow the easy steps given below:
1. Visit the official website of the state
Go to the site of your state’s Department of Finance or Department of Revenue. There search for words like “stimulus”, “rebate”, or “basic income”.
2. Read the eligibility conditions
Most schemes look at your income, place of residence, tax return status and number of family members.
3. Keep the necessary documents ready
Such as:
- Recent tax return copy (W-2 or 1099)
- Proof of identity and proof of residence
- Bank information (for direct deposit)
Apply online or check automatic eligibility
In some schemes, eligibility is automatically available if you have paid taxes on time. For other schemes, a form has to be filled, whose last date has to be kept in mind.
Does GBI really benefit?
Yes! Research from Stanford and the University of Chicago has found that plans like GBI:
- Reduced people’s mental stress
- Improved financial situation
- People moved forward with confidence in looking for a new job
Is this money taxable?
Most states don’t tax the money you receive from GBI, but some states may have different rules. So be sure to check your state’s rules.
FAQs
Is there a $500 stimulus coming from the federal government in 2025?
No, there is no federal level stimulus right now.
Which states are offering monthly stimulus?
California, New York, Illinois, and Georgia have such plans.
How to apply?
Check eligibility by visiting your state’s website or through tax information.
Conclusion
Even though there is no direct financial help from the federal government in 2025, some states have come forward to provide relief to their citizens. If you are also feeling financial pressure, then immediately find out about your state’s plan. This help of $500 per month can be a big relief for you.
