Fact-Check: Is the Government Sending a $6,400 Stimulus Check? Here’s What You Need to Know

Rumors about a $6,400 stimulus check have been circulating widely, leaving many Americans wondering whether they should expect another round of government financial aid. While misinformation about stimulus payments has been common in recent years, it’s important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to government-issued financial assistance.

So, is the government really sending out $6,400 stimulus checks? Let’s break down what’s true, what’s misleading, and what financial support is actually available.

Is There a $6,400 Stimulus Check?

As of February 2025, there is no federal stimulus program offering $6,400 to Americans. The U.S. government has not announced or approved any such payment.

The claim that the federal government is distributing a fourth or fifth round of stimulus payments, specifically a $6,400 check, originated from viral social media posts and misleading advertisements. Some of these claims have been linked to scams designed to steal personal financial information.

Where Did the $6,400 Stimulus Check Rumors Come From?

False claims about stimulus payments have been circulating online for months. Some of the most common sources of misinformation include:

• Fake News Websites: Some fraudulent sites create fabricated news articles claiming that Congress has approved new stimulus checks.
• Misleading Social Media Posts: Viral posts often spread rumors without citing credible sources.
• Scam Emails and Text Messages: Some individuals have received emails or texts impersonating government agencies, promising a $6,400 payment in exchange for personal information.
• Deepfake Videos and Audio: In January 2024, deepfake audio and video of President Biden surfaced, falsely claiming that a new stimulus payment was on its way.

What Financial Assistance Is Actually Available?

Although there is no new $6,400 stimulus check, some government programs do offer financial assistance to eligible individuals. Here are some key programs available in 2025:

1. Recovery Rebate Credit

If you did not receive previous stimulus payments during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may still be eligible to claim them through the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing your federal tax return.

2. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

For 2024, the IRS raised the limit for Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to $3,200 per individual or $6,400 per couple. However, this is not a government stimulus—it’s a tax-advantaged benefit for covering medical expenses.

3. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Roughly 1.3 million veterans and millions of low-income Americans rely on SNAP benefits to afford groceries.

4. Housing Assistance for Veterans

The government provides rental and mortgage assistance for veterans through Housing Choice Vouchers.

How to Spot Stimulus Payment Scams

Since misinformation about government benefits often leads to scams, here are ways to protect yourself:

• Verify Sources: Always check official government websites like IRS.gov or USA.gov for accurate information.
• Beware of Unsolicited Messages: The government does not contact individuals via text or email to offer stimulus checks.
• Look for Red Flags: If you’re being asked to provide sensitive information (Social Security number, bank details), it’s likely a scam.
• Report Fraudulent Claims: If you receive suspicious messages, report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Conclusion

The $6,400 stimulus check is not real—it’s a viral hoax that has been debunked by multiple fact-checking organizations. While federal assistance programs are available for eligible individuals, no new federal stimulus checks have been announced.

To stay informed and avoid scams, always rely on official government websites and trusted news sources. If you’re unsure about a financial assistance program, check directly with the IRS or USA.gov before sharing any personal information.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.