The state of Maine has officially wrapped up its program for sending out stimulus payments, also known as relief checks. These checks were designed to help residents handle financial pressures during the pandemic and rising inflation. While new payments are no longer being issued, there’s still hope for residents who may have missed out.
Maine’s $850 Relief Checks
In 2022, Governor Janet Mills spearheaded a program to distribute $850 inflation relief checks to eligible residents. This initiative was funded by the state’s budget surplus, and nearly 850,000 people received payments. The final round of checks was mailed in January 2023, marking the end of the state’s direct relief efforts.
However, not all checks reached their recipients. Around 40,000 payments, worth $19 million, remain unclaimed. If you think you might be entitled to one of these checks, you can still claim it through Maine’s Unclaimed Property Program.
Federal Stimulus Payments Are Still in Play
On the federal side, the IRS has stepped in to help individuals who missed out on previous pandemic stimulus payments. Recently, the IRS announced it would automatically send payments of up to $1,400 to about one million eligible Americans. These payments are part of the Recovery Rebate Credit for the third round of Economic Impact Payments.
If you qualify, you don’t need to take any action. Payments are being sent automatically, with most arriving by direct deposit or check by the end of January 2025. The IRS will also send notification letters to confirm eligibility.
What to Do Next
If you’re a Maine resident, here are the steps you can take to ensure you receive any unclaimed payments:
- Check for Unclaimed State Payments: Visit Maine’s Unclaimed Property Program website to search for and claim your relief check.
- Review Your Federal Tax Filing: If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, you have until April 15, 2025, to do so and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- Stay Updated with the IRS: Look out for letters or notifications about your eligibility for federal payments.
Don’t Leave Money on the Table
While Maine’s state program has ended, the unclaimed funds are still available for those who missed their checks. Federally, automatic stimulus payments could still be on the way if you qualify. Act quickly to make sure you don’t miss out on money that could make a real difference.
