States Are Giving Out Extra Cash in October 2025: Find Out If You’ll Get a Check

Several U.S. states are issuing direct payments, rebates, and tax relief this October 2025, including California, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and New York.

Each program is designed to provide financial support to households facing inflation and rising living costs.

Related: Full List of States Sending Rebates, Credits, and Direct Payments in October 2025

Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies, how much you can receive, and when to expect your deposit.

 

California: $725 Monthly Stimulus Under Guaranteed Income Pilot

California continues its push for economic relief through a guaranteed income effort known as the Family First Economic Support Pilot Program.

This program provides $725 per month for 12 months to selected families living in certain Sacramento ZIP codes (95815, 95821, 95823, 95825, 95828, and 95838).

Eligibility criteria:

• Parent or guardian of a child under five years old

• Household income below 200% of the federal poverty line

The initiative, launched in mid-2025, runs through 2026.

Payments are typically released on the 15th of each month, including October 2025.

It’s not a statewide program but a targeted guaranteed income pilot focused on helping vulnerable families maintain stability and prevent separation caused by poverty.

Learn more at: https://cdss.ca.gov

 

Georgia: Up to $500 in Tax Surplus Refunds

Georgia residents are receiving tax refunds up to $500 under the Tax Surplus Refund Program (HB 112) after the state generated a budget surplus in 2023.

Refunds are automatic once 2024 state tax returns are filed, no separate application is needed.

Refund amounts:

• Single/married filing separately: up to $250

• Head of household: up to $375

• Married filing jointly: up to $500

To qualify, taxpayers must have filed both their 2023 and 2024 returns (or by October 15, 2025 if under extension) and have had positive tax liability in 2023.

Refunds are being distributed by direct deposit or mailed check through October.

Track your refund at the Georgia Tax Center: https://gtc.dor.ga.gov

If you could use a little extra help, see what benefits you can claim here.

 

Pennsylvania: $1,000 Property Tax & Rent Rebate Payments

In Pennsylvania, thousands of seniors and disabled adults are receiving Property Tax/Rent Rebate (PTRR) checks of up to $1,000, and in some cases up to $1,500 for residents of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Scranton.

Eligibility:

• Age 65 or older

• Widows/widowers 50+

• Adults with disabilities 18+

• Income limits vary up to $46,520 annually

The first round of payments began in July 2025 and continues through the fall.

To check your payment or apply before December 31, 2025, visit: https://www.revenue.pa.gov or call 1-888-222-9190 for the “Where’s My Refund?” service.

The PTRR program is funded by Pennsylvania’s lottery and gaming revenues and helps offset housing costs for low-income residents.

 

New York: STAR and Inflation Rebate Programs

New York is issuing two forms of relief this season: the STAR Program and a new Inflation Refund Check arriving in October–November 2025.

1. STAR (School Tax Relief Program):

• Basic STAR: For homeowners using their property as a primary residence with income below the threshold.

• Enhanced STAR: For seniors 65+ with moderate income, offering higher rebates.

Apply or update your STAR registration through the NY Department of Taxation and Finance: https://www.tax.ny.gov
 

2. Inflation Rebate Check:
Eligible taxpayers who filed their 2023 state tax returns will automatically receive a check between $150 and $400, depending on income and filing status.

Payments begin mid-October 2025, no action required.

Residents should ignore calls or emails requesting personal details, as the process is automatic.

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