The Internet Says a Stimulus Check Is Coming. Your Gut Probably Says Otherwise.

Every few months, the internet discovers a new rumor that spreads faster than a Florida thunderstorm. The latest one is a big one. You may have seen posts, videos, or even group chats claiming a brand-new stimulus payment is about to land in bank accounts. Some say $1,390. Some say $2,000. Some even add graphics to make it look official.

It would be great if it were true. Groceries are expensive. Rent is expensive. Everything is expensive. A little financial breathing room would help a lot of families right now.

But here is the simple truth:

There is no new federal stimulus check approved for 2025.

Not for November. Not for “direct deposit day.” Not for a “tariff dividend.” Not for anything.

This is exactly the type of moment scammers wait for. When people want good news, they stop questioning the source. That is when the fake links, fake texts, and fake “IRS notices” show up.

Let’s break down what is rumor, what is real, and how to protect yourself and the people you care about.

Where the Rumor Started and Why It Took Off

Recent articles have debunked the claims circulating online. The short version:

• These “stimulus payments” come from speculation and misunderstandings about proposed economic ideas. 
• None of these ideas have passed Congress. 
• None of them have been approved by the IRS or Treasury. 
• No agency has announced new payments.

But a rumor like this catches fire because people want help. Scammers know that. They build scams around hope and urgency, and right now, many families are stretched thin.

So instead of waiting for official news, scammers create convincing messages that look like “stimulus confirmation,” then push people to click a link or “verify information.”

If it feels a little too convenient, that’s because it is.

What the IRS Has Actually Said

The IRS has been very clear about a few things, and these guidelines are worth bookmarking. According to the IRS:

1. The IRS rarely contacts you out of the blue

• They are not texting you about a stimulus payment. 
• They are not DM’ing you for your Social Security number. 
• They are not emailing you a “claim form.”

2. A message that asks for bank info is not real

Scammers love phrases like:

• “Confirm your details to receive payment.” 
• “Your stimulus is waiting.” 
• “Update direct deposit information.”

If you see it, delete it.

3. Fake websites are everywhere

The only official IRS website ends in IRS.gov. Anything else is a setup.

4. The IRS never takes payment in gift cards, crypto, or prepaid cards

This one feels obvious, but scams use it every day because people fall for it every day.

5. If a stimulus program existed, you would see it on the news before you ever saw it in a text

The IRS does not roll out major programs quietly.

How to Protect Yourself (and Your Parents, Kids, Friends, or Anyone Who Clicks Too Fast)

Stay skeptical of anything promising “free money”

If the government owes you money, they tell you through an official notice or your tax filing. Not through a link from an unknown number.

Double-check before you click anything

If a message feels urgent or emotional, take a breath and look at it again with a clear head. Scammers rely on panic.

Talk openly with your family

Many scams target seniors, immigrants, and people experiencing financial stress. A simple “Hey, if you get a weird message, call me first” goes a long way.

Report Anything Suspicious

The IRS encourages people to forward fake emails to: phishing@irs.gov

You can also report text messages by forwarding them to 7726, which flags the number as spam.

These steps might feel small, but they shut down scams before they spread. 

For more information on how to report fake IRS email and text messages, see here.

Why We’re Sharing This

At Watson & Associates, we spend every day helping people stay financially steady and confident. Part of that work is helping clients navigate a world full of misinformation. We want you to have accurate information, not fear or confusion.

If you receive a message and you are not sure if it is real, send it to us. We are happy to look at it. You deserve to feel safe and informed, not pressured or tricked.

A Final Word: Stay Alert, Not Afraid

This situation is a reminder that scammers adapt quickly. They know how to push emotional buttons. They know how to make a message sound official. They count on people being busy and tired.

You do not need to panic. You just need to stay aware.

And if you ever feel unsure, you have us.

If you have questions, think something looks suspicious, or just want a second opinion, contact us anytime. We are here to help you stay protected and prepared.