The United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has had to deny that a new round of stimulus check payments is scheduled for next month. This is due to rumors that have been spreading on social media and which, due to misinformation, the public has believed. Authorities have warned that this is a potential financial scam or phishing attempt, so the public should be cautious. It is believed that the origin of this rumor comes from the legislative proposal American Workers Rebate Currently, which is in the United States Congress, but has not yet been approved, so there are not even any details about the funds or distribution dates.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were payments distributed between 2020 and 2021, but the deadline to apply for the Recovery Rebate Credit expired last April 2025. All pending payments will be made without the citizen having to provide any personal information. These types of online situations are much more common than one might think, so it is important to know how to discern information. It is essential to turn to official sources to avoid falling victim to this type of fraud, and above all, not to share personal or banking information online.
Social media fraud
Recently, there has been a stir on social media about the possible existence of new stimulus checks for this month. There is even talk of specific amounts, ranging from $1,390 to $2,400 for eligible citizens. According to messages circulated on Facebook, X, and TikTok, Americans would receive a federal check in November. However, this is nothing more than a hoax. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has had to deny this information and clarified that it is a rumor, which could even be a scam or phishing attempt. According to the institution, “Any message requesting personal or financial information to receive a stimulus check should be considered fraudulent”.
Collection of personal data
In this situation, the authorities have deemed it necessary to remind the public that neither the IRS ever asks for banking information, Social Security numbers, and much less the payment of fees to access a financial benefit. If you see an online request asking for this type of information or payment, do not continue, as it is very likely a fraud.
Where does this rumor come from?
It is believed that this rumor arises from confusion with an actual legislative proposal. In the United States Congress, there is a proposal called the American Workers Rebate Act, through which payments of between $600 and $2,400 per household would be made depending on the number of people in the family and their income. However, it is only a proposal that has neither approval nor funds, and definitely no distribution dates.
Aid Programs
Between 2020 and 2021, there were three rounds of payments during the COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, the amounts ranged between $600 and $1,400. However, the pending payments began to be issued in December 2024, according to the IRS. “All payments should be received by the end of January 2025, and taxpayers do not need to take any action to receive them,” it clarified.
Importance of consulting reliable sources
The IRS has taken this opportunity to remind the public that all of its official communications are conducted through the IRS.gov portal or verified government channels. If you receive links via social media or email, it is very likely a scam. Remember that it is essential to stay well informed, but this should be done through reliable and official sources. While social media can be useful for many things, there are better options when it comes to official communications.