Calendar marked February 2026 with cash and text "State Checks Incoming!" representing inflation relief payments.

15 States Sending Checks in February 2026: Master List & Eligibility

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Important Disclaimer: This States Sending Checks master list is based on current legislative budget surpluses and proposed inflation relief efforts for early 2026. Eligibility requirements, amounts, and distribution schedules depend on final state approval and individual taxpayer status. Always verify with your state’s Department of Revenue.

While federal stimulus checks seem unlikely, individual States Sending Checks are stepping up to fill the gap. Thanks to budget surpluses and continued inflation pressures, millions of Americans in nearly a third of the country can expect some form of financial relief this February.

We have compiled the ultimate master list of the 15 States Sending Checks (or equivalent rebates/credits) in early 2026. Is your state on the list? Read on to find out.

If you missed the federal update, check our guide on the potential Federal Rebate 2026.

Calendar marked February 2026 with cash and text 'State Checks Incoming!' representing the 15 States Sending Checks.

The Master List: 15 States Sending Checks & Relief

This table summarizes the key States Sending Checks or finalizing relief payments for February 2026. Find your state below.

StateProgram Name / TypeEst. Amount (Up To)
1. CaliforniaCalEITC / YCTC Expansion$1,000+
2. New YorkSTAR Rebate & Inflation ReliefAvg. $400-$800
3. GeorgiaSurplus Tax Refund$250 / $500
4. TexasProperty Tax Relief CutsVaries by Home Value
5. FloridaMy Safe Florida Home GrantUp to $10,000
6. MinnesotaChild Tax Credit Rebate$1,750 per child
7. New MexicoSurplus Rebate$500 / $1,000
8. Massachusetts62F Tax Cap Refund~14% of Tax Liability
9. VirginiaOne-time Tax Rebate$200 / $400
10. ColoradoTABOR Refund$800 (Flat Rate)
11. ArizonaFamily Tax Rebate$250 per dependent
12. MontanaProperty Tax RebateUp to $675
13. South CarolinaIncome Tax RebateUp to $800
14. IndianaAutomatic Taxpayer Refund$200 / $400
15. IdahoSpecial Tax Rebate$300 (Single) / $600

A dark blue map of the United States highlighting regions and States Sending Checks in 2026.

Spotlight: Details on Key States Sending Checks

Some states have particularly large or complex programs this year. Click the links below for our detailed guides on how to claim these specific payments.

California: Targeting Families

California is focusing relief through tax credits rather than a blanket stimulus. The expanded CalEITC and Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC) mean significant refunds for eligible families filing this season.

👉 Full Details: Read our complete guide to California Inflation Relief 2026.

New York: Homeowner & Inflation Focus

New York continues to utilize the STAR rebate program for homeowners, alongside targeted inflation relief checks for eligible residents.

👉 Full Details: Check eligibility in our NY Inflation Relief Checks Guide.

Georgia & The South: Surplus Refunds

Georgia is utilizing its massive budget surplus to send direct refunds to taxpayers again this year. Texas is focusing on property tax relief, while Florida offers substantial grants for home hardening.

👉 Georgia: Georgia Surplus Rebate Guide.

👉 Texas: Texas Property Tax Relief Info.

👉 Florida: My Safe Florida Home Grant Guide.

Why Are States Sending Checks in 2026?

It comes down to two main factors. First, many States Sending Checks are still sitting on significant budget surpluses collected over the past few years. Second, state legislatures recognize that while inflation has cooled, prices for essentials remain high, and residents need relief.

A stack of government refund checks in front of a capitol building representing budget surplus rebates.

How to Claim States Sending Checks and Rebates

In most cases (like Georgia or California credits), the action required is simple:

  1. File Your 2025 State Tax Return: Most rebates are triggered automatically when you file your taxes in early 2026.
  2. Ensure Correct Address/Direct Deposit: Make sure your state revenue department has your current banking info for the fastest delivery.
  3. Check Specific Portals: Some states (like Minnesota or New Mexico in past years) require a separate application portal for certain rebates. Always check your state’s .gov website.

FAQ: States Sending Checks 2026

Q: Are these payments taxable by the IRS?
A: Generally, if the payment is for disaster relief or general welfare, it may not be federally taxable. However, specific rules applied in previous years. You must consult the IRS guidance for 2026 or a tax professional regarding any States Sending Checks.

Q: If I moved out of state, do I still get it?
A: Usually, you must have been a resident for a specific portion of the qualifying tax year to be eligible.

Official Verification Resources

Always verify programs through official state government portals. Here are links to the revenue departments of the key states listed:

Scam Alert: States will never contact you via text or email asking for personal information to “claim” your check. Payments are typically automatic based on tax filings. Always use official .gov websites.
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