Stimulus Checks In September 2025 – Which States Are Paying And When?
As September 2025 arrives, several U.S. states are rolling out stimulus-style payments aimed at supporting residents facing tight budgets.
From property tax relief in New York to guaranteed income programs in California and Alaska’s annual dividend, these payments address different needs—and understanding who qualifies and when can make a big difference this month.
New York – STAR Program Details
The New York School Tax Relief (STAR) payment provides financial relief to eligible homeowners.
- Standard STAR checks range from $350 to $600, depending on assessed property value and school district.
- Enhanced STAR offers larger credits—up to $1,500—for homeowners aged 65 and above.
- Income eligibility caps increased to $107,300 for 2025.
- Payments are typically issued around mid-September to late fall.
California – Guaranteed Income Pilot in Sacramento
In Sacramento, the Creative Growth Fellowship Program is launching a pilot with monthly payouts of $850 for 12 months:
- Recipients: 200 local artists selected from diverse disciplines.
- Eligibility: Sacramento city residents, aged 18+, artists in recognized fields.
- Timeline: Payments start September 1, 2025 and continue monthly through August 2026.
This initiative represents California’s broader efforts to support creative communities through guaranteed income programs.
Alaska – Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD)
Alaska continues its annual tradition of issuing dividends funded by oil revenues:
- Payout: $1,702 per eligible resident in 2025.
- Eligiblity: Full-year Alaska residents in 2024 with no felony record or residency elsewhere.
- Payment Date: September 11, 2025, for those whose applications remain unpaid as of early September.
This payment represents a significant economic boost for Alaskans.
Stimulus Payment
| State | Program Name | Eligible Recipients | Payment Amount | Payment Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | School Tax Relief (STAR) Program | Homeowners under the income cap | $350–$600 (standard) | September (varies) |
| California | Guaranteed Income Pilot (Sacramento) | Artists in specific zip codes | $850 per month (1 year) | From September 1 |
| Alaska | Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) | Long-term Alaska residents | $1,702 per person | September 11 |
Why These Payments Matter
- New York STAR eases property tax burdens—critical for fixed-income homeowners.
- California’s pilot fosters financial stability among artists, allowing them to invest in creative careers.
- Alaska’s PFD continues to distribute oil wealth directly to residents, aiding rural and urban budgets alike.
Together, these programs demonstrate varied approaches to financial relief based on state needs and resources.
September 2025 brings a timely wave of financial support through stimulus-style payments across New York, California, and Alaska.
From New York homeowners, to Sacramento artists, to all qualifying Alaskans, these payments reflect diverse strategies to boost economic resilience.
If you live in one of these areas, double-check eligibility, track your payment, and ensure your financial footing this fall.
FAQs
STAR (NY): Typically automatic if you filed for STAR or meet income limits.
California Pilot: Application and selection occurred socially; payments start Sept. 1.
Alaska PFD: Eligible applicants must’ve filed earlier; payments are automatic if approved.
Recipients selected for the Creative Growth Fellowship will receive $850 monthly starting September 1, 2025, through the city’s arts & culture office.
You must have been an Alaska resident in all of 2024, intend to remain indefinitely, not claimed residency elsewhere, and have a clean legal and absence record.