As February 2026 begins, several U.S. states are issuing stimulus payments to eligible residents. These financial relief measures are designed to ease the burden of inflation, rising living costs, and general economic stress.
Many of these programs opened their application windows on January 1, and now qualified individuals are beginning to see funds arrive. From annual dividends to targeted rebates, here is a breakdown of which states are sending payments this month and what residents need to know.
Alaska
Alaska continues its longstanding Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program in 2026. This annual payment, funded by the state’s oil revenues, is distributed to residents who meet specific criteria. To be eligible, applicants must have lived in Alaska for the entire calendar year of 2025, not claimed residency elsewhere, and intend to remain in the state.
The application period for the 2026 PFD closed on March 31, 2025. Payments are being distributed throughout February to approved applicants. Last year, the average PFD amount was around $1,312. While the final 2026 amount is pending, it is expected to be in a similar range. For many families, this payment provides meaningful support in offsetting household costs.
New Mexico
New Mexico is issuing another round of income-based rebate checks in early 2026. Residents who filed their 2024 state income tax returns and meet income limits are eligible for this payment. Single filers earning under $75,000 and joint filers under $150,000 qualify for rebates ranging between $250 and $500.
Most payments are automatic and are being sent throughout February. These rebates are intended to help residents manage the impact of inflation, especially with grocery and utility bills continuing to climb.
Montana
Montana is offering a property tax rebate of up to $675 to qualifying homeowners. To be eligible, residents must have paid property taxes on their primary residence during 2024 and meet all residency requirements.
The application window for the rebate remains open through March 15, 2026, but those who submitted early are receiving payments now. This is currently a one-time program and may not repeat in the future.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program remains active, specifically supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities. Applicants must be at least 65 years old, a widow or widower aged 50 or older, or an adult with a qualifying disability.
The maximum rebate amount is $1,000, with payments being sent throughout February to those who applied by the January 15, 2026, deadline. This assistance is particularly important for seniors on fixed incomes dealing with increased housing costs.
Oregon
Oregon is delivering additional support to low-income workers through a state-level Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) enhancement. Eligible individuals must have filed a 2024 state tax return and claimed the federal EITC.
Refunds are being issued in waves, with most expected to be received during February. This measure aims to supplement wages and help families cover basic living expenses.
Colorado
Colorado is distributing Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) refunds to residents who filed their 2024 state tax returns by January 31, 2026. These refunds return surplus revenue collected by the state to its taxpayers.
The amount varies by household income and size, but most payments range between $400 and $1,000. Disbursements are being made throughout February.
Table
The following table summarizes each state’s stimulus efforts this month:
| State | Payment Type | Amount Range | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Permanent Fund Dividend | ~$1,312 | Resident all of 2025, applied by March 2025 |
| New Mexico | Rebate Check | $250 – $500 | Income-based, filed 2024 taxes |
| Montana | Property Tax Rebate | Up to $675 | Homeowners paid 2024 property tax |
| Pennsylvania | Rent/Tax Rebate | Up to $1,000 | Seniors, disabled, low-income renters |
| Oregon | EITC Boost | Varies | Claimed federal EITC in 2024 |
| Colorado | TABOR Refund | $400 – $1,000 | Filed 2024 taxes by Jan 2026 |
Deadlines
Many of these state-level programs are tied to tax filings or specific application deadlines. Missing those deadlines can result in losing out on valuable assistance. While some payments are automatic, others require action from the taxpayer. Residents should verify eligibility and review requirements on their state’s official government website.
In addition to state efforts, some cities and counties are also providing local relief programs. Even if your state is not on this list, there may be smaller-scale options available in your area.
While these payments are often described as “stimulus,” they differ from federal stimulus checks issued during national emergencies. Most current payments are income-restricted or tied to specific tax credit qualifications, making timely filing and eligibility verification essential.
As February progresses, these payments are helping Americans manage financial demands during a slower economic period. For many, the assistance offers much-needed relief as they plan for the months ahead.
FAQs
Who gets Alaska PFD in 2026?
Residents who lived in Alaska all of 2025 and applied by March 31.
When will New Mexico send rebate checks?
Most payments are being sent throughout February 2026.
How much is Montana’s property rebate?
Up to $675 for eligible homeowners who paid 2024 taxes.
Is Pennsylvania sending checks to seniors?
Yes, up to $1,000 for eligible seniors and people with disabilities.
