Rumors about a $12,000 stimulus check being issued to California residents or nationwide have been circulating, but no official announcements have been made by the IRS or the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) regarding a large-scale stimulus of this amount.
This fact check will clarify the current status of stimulus payments, provide accurate information about available programs, and address how to verify stimulus updates.
Current Status of $12,000 Stimulus Checks
As of 2024, neither the federal government nor the state of California has announced a one-time $12,000 stimulus check for residents.
While there have been past stimulus payments and tax credits intended to aid low-income families, such as the California Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and federal relief programs during COVID-19, there is currently no active program offering a direct payment of $12,000.
Existing Financial Assistance Programs in California
Instead of a $12,000 stimulus check, various programs offer support to low-income individuals and families:
- California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC): This is a state tax credit that provides additional funds to low-income working residents. Eligibility depends on income and family size, with benefits varying based on the number of dependents.
- Federal Tax Credits: Low- and moderate-income families can apply for federal tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which provides substantial assistance, especially to households with children.
- CalFresh (SNAP): California’s food assistance program offers benefits to those who meet specific income limits, helping offset grocery costs.
Steps to Verify Stimulus Eligibility and Payments
If you want to verify any potential stimulus or relief payments, here’s what you should do:
- Check Official Sources: Visit the official Franchise Tax Board (FTB) site at ftb.ca.gov for California-specific updates, and the IRS website at irs.gov for federal stimulus or tax credit programs.
- Review Tax Credits: File your state and federal tax returns accurately, as many state benefits and credits, such as CalEITC, are claimed through the tax system.
- Avoid Misinformation: Be cautious about unofficial announcements. Rumors about large stimulus payments often spread without verification and may cause confusion.
Currently, there is no $12,000 stimulus payment available.
To ensure you’re aware of legitimate financial aid programs, monitor the IRS and FTB websites for any new information and consult a trusted financial advisor if necessary.
