Americans Get Up To $500 In ‘Automatic’ Checks, With No Conditions: In a welcome move for thousands of Americans, several programs across the U.S. are offering automatic payments of up to $500, often with no strings attached. These initiatives aim to ease the financial burdens on working families, individuals, and households facing inflation and economic uncertainty. If you’re wondering how these payments work and whether you qualify, you’re in the right place. This article breaks down who’s eligible, how to access these payments, and what you need to do (or not do!) to receive them.
Americans Get Up To $500 In ‘Automatic’ Checks, With No Conditions
In uncertain times, every dollar counts. Whether it’s unclaimed money through Pennsylvania’s Money Match program, guaranteed income from Tacoma’s GRIT initiative, or missed federal stimulus payments via the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit, these opportunities could put real cash in your hands. You don’t need to be an expert to benefit — just stay informed and take the simple steps outlined above.
| Program | Location | Amount | Eligibility | How to Get It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Money Match Program | Pennsylvania | Up to $500 (one-time) | Must have unclaimed property valued ≤ $500 | Automatically mailed after notification |
| GRIT Program | Tacoma, WA | $500/month for 12 months | Low-income single parents in select ZIP codes | Apply online, selected participants receive monthly payments |
| IRS Recovery Rebate Credit | Nationwide | Up to $1,400 | Didn’t receive full 2021 stimulus | File a 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025 |
Why These Payments Matter?
Economic conditions have been tough for many households in recent years. From rising rent prices to increased grocery bills, families are finding it harder to make ends meet. According to a 2023 Pew Research study, nearly 6 in 10 Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Programs like these offer a financial lifeline — even modest payments like $500 can mean covering rent, paying off debt, or buying necessities.
Let’s explore each of these programs in detail and help you navigate what may be free money waiting for you.
Pennsylvania’s Money Match Program
What Is It?
Launched by the Pennsylvania Treasury in early 2024, the Money Match Program proactively reunites residents with unclaimed property without requiring them to file a claim.
This is a no-application, no-conditions program.
Who Qualifies?
- You must be a Pennsylvania resident.
- The unclaimed property (like old bank accounts or checks) must:
- Belong to a single individual (not joint owners or businesses).
- Be worth $500 or less.
How Does It Work?
If you’re eligible:
- The Treasury sends you a letter confirming your ownership.
- Within 45 days, a check arrives in your mailbox — no action needed.
The program began issuing checks in March 2024. In its first round, it sent over 7,300 checks totaling $1.7 million. Another 40,000 checks are expected to go out in May 2025.
How to Check If You Have Unclaimed Money
Visit the Pennsylvania Treasury’s unclaimed property search tool to search for your name. You can also call 1-800-222-2046 for assistance.
GRIT Program (Growing Resilience in Tacoma)
What Is It?
Guaranteed income, or direct monthly cash payments, is gaining popularity across the U.S. The GRIT Program is Tacoma’s pilot guaranteed income initiative. Spearheaded by the United Way of Pierce County and the City of Tacoma, the program offers $500 per month for 12 months to qualifying households — no work requirements, no restrictions on spending.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a single head of household with children under 18 (or under 21 if disabled).
- Live in one of the following ZIP codes: 98404, 98405, 98408, 98409, 98418, 98444, or 98445.
- Be between 18 and 65 years old.
- Earn between 100% and 200% of the federal poverty level. For example, a family of 3 with an annual income between $24,860 and $49,720 (as of 2024) may qualify.
How to Apply
- Applications opened March 1, 2024.
- Visit uwpc.org for eligibility screening and submission details.
- Selected participants receive funds monthly for one full year.
IRS Recovery Rebate Credit
What Is It?
This is essentially a stimulus payment you might have missed. If you didn’t receive your full third Economic Impact Payment (EIP) in 2021 — worth up to $1,400 — you can still claim it by filing a 2021 tax return.
Who Is Eligible?
- Anyone who did not receive the full amount of the third stimulus payment in 2021.
- Your income in 2021 should fall below:
- $75,000 (single)
- $150,000 (married filing jointly)
Deadline to File
You must file a 2021 return by April 15, 2025. Use Form 1040 and include the Recovery Rebate Credit.
How to File?
- Visit irs.gov to file or amend your return.
- Use IRS Free File if you earn under $73,000.
- You’ll receive your payment by direct deposit or mailed check.
How Americans Get Up To $500 In ‘Automatic’ Checks, With No Conditions Can Be Used?
There are no limitations on how recipients use these payments. That means you can spend them on:
- Rent or mortgage
- Childcare or school supplies
- Debt repayment
- Food and groceries
- Emergency savings
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FAQs About Americans Get Up To $500 In ‘Automatic’ Checks, With No Conditions
Are these $500 payments taxable?
- Money Match and GRIT payments are not taxable, but it’s always best to consult a tax advisor.
- Recovery Rebate Credit is a tax credit, so it is not considered taxable income.
Do I have to repay the money later?
No. These programs are not loans. You are not required to pay back the money.
What if I moved recently? Will I still get my Money Match check?
If your address isn’t up to date with state records, you may miss the automatic mailing. Contact the PA Treasury or update your details through their website.
Is there a deadline to apply for the GRIT program?
The application window opened on March 1, 2024, but there may be future rounds depending on funding.
I filed my taxes, but haven’t received the Recovery Rebate Credit. What should I do?
You can track your refund using the IRS Where’s My Refund tool or call the IRS directly at 800-829-1040.
