As August unfolds, rumors about a new $1,338 federal stimulus payment have captured attention—but here’s the truth: no such payment is scheduled or approved, according to official IRS statements. Although well-intentioned, this rumor stems from misinformation. Here’s what you need to know.
The Rumor vs. Reality
- Widespread social media chatter claims the IRS will issue a $1,338 stimulus check to low- and middle-income households this summer.
- But official updates confirm that this claim is false: no such stimulus program has been passed by Congress.
- While legislation like the American Worker Rebate Act has been proposed, it remains unapproved and not law.
Past Stimulus Payments: What’s Different Now
During the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple Economic Impact Payments were approved and distributed. A small number of taxpayers recently received delayed “Recovery Rebate Credit” payments for previously unclaimed funds.
- However, the window for claiming those ended in April 2025.
- There is no replacement payment or new stimulus plan currently in effect.
How the Rumor Might Be Harmful
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Rumor Type | $1,338 federal stimulus payment to be issued in summer 2025 |
| Official Status | False—No such check has been authorized or scheduled |
| Proposed Legislation | American Worker Rebate Act exists, but has not passed through Congress |
| Actual Current Payments | Only delayed COVID-era payments may still be claimed via Recovery Credit |
| Risk Factor | Rumors may fuel scams, misinformation, and false expectations |
Protect Yourself from Misinformation and Scams
- Don’t share personal info with anyone claiming they can speed up stimulus checks.
- Ignore unsolicited calls, emails, or websites offering to “process” your payment for a fee.
- All official IRS payment updates will appear on IRS.gov—stick to that source to avoid fraud.
What You Can Do Instead
- If you missed a past stimulus check, check your eligibility for the Recovery Rebate Credit—but note the filing deadline has already passed.
- Stay informed by monitoring legitimate news outlets and the IRS for any future relief updates.
Despite circulating buzz, there is no authorized $1,338 stimulus payment heading out this summer. While past funding—notably COVID-era rebates—may have eligible claimants, the window to act has closed.
If you come across rumors or solicitations, check directly with IRS.gov. Staying safe means verifying before you trust—and steering clear of scams.
FAQs
Will there be a $1,338 stimulus check in August 2025?
No. The IRS has confirmed that no new federal stimulus payment of $1,338—or any amount—is planned or authorized.
I heard about stimulus proposals—what’s actually happening in Congress?
Some bills like the American Worker Rebate Act have been introduced, but none have passed, meaning no legal basis exists for issuing new payments.
Can I still file for missed stimulus funds?
If you missed claiming a prior stimulus payment via the Recovery Rebate Credit, you had to file by mid-April 2025. No new window is open.