Key Takeaways:
- Federal Status: There is no 4th federal stimulus check approved for late 2025 or 2026—the last was 2021.
- New Financial Boost: The 2026 COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment) will increase benefits by approximately 2.8% starting in January 2026.
- State Rebates: States like Alaska ($1,300+), Colorado ($1,112), and New Mexico have issued specific payments to eligible residents in 2025.
- Asset Protection: Tax refunds and state stimulus payments are excluded from the SSI $2,000 asset limit for 12 months.
- Deadline Warning: The deadline to claim the 2021 federal stimulus ($1,400) passed on April 15, 2025.
Rumors of a “4th Federal Stimulus Check” for 2026 are false. No new federal payments have been approved.
However, millions of beneficiaries will see more money through:
- State-Specific Rebates (up to $1,300 in some states).
- The 2026 COLA Increase (~2.8% boost).
Use the guide below to check your state’s status and calculate your new benefit amount.
Will Social Security Disability Recipients Get a 4th Stimulus Check in 2026?
Many rumors are circulating online about a “4th Stimulus Check.” The reality is that the federal government has not approved a fourth round of Economic Impact Payments.
However, financial relief is arriving in the form of a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
The last federal check was issued in March 2021.
However, financial help is arriving in other forms:
How Much Will My Check Actually Increase? (2026 COLA Math)
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment for 2026. This will increase the average monthly benefit by roughly $50-$60 starting in January.
| Beneficiary Type | 2025 Avg. Payment | Est. 2026 Payment | Monthly Increase |
| Retired Worker | $1,907 | ~$1,960 | +$53 |
| SSDI Recipient | $1,537 | ~$1,580 | +$43 |
| SSI Individual | $967 | $994 | +$27 |
| SSI Couple | $1,450 | $1,491 | +$41 |
(Note: These are estimates based on SSA announcements. Your official notice will arrive by mail in December.)
State-Specific Financial Relief & Rebates (2025/2026)
While the IRS isn’t sending checks, several states have issued their own payments in late 2025:
| State | Program Name | Amount (Up To) | Deadline / Notes |
| Alaska | Permanent Fund Dividend | $1,000+ | Distributed to eligible residents in Oct 2025. |
| Colorado | PTC Rebate | $1,154 | For seniors/disabled. File by Dec 31, 2025. |
| Pennsylvania | Property Tax / Rent Rebate |
$1,000 | Deadline extended to Dec 31, 2025. |
| New Mexico | Income Tax Rebate |
$500–$1,000 | Issued based on 2024 tax filings. |
(Note: Amounts and deadlines are subject to state legislative changes. Always verify with your State Department of Revenue.)
SSI vs. SSDI: How “Extra Cash” Affects Your Benefits
It is critical to understand how receiving extra money—whether from a state rebate, a tax refund, or a future stimulus—affects your eligibility.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
If you receive SSDI, you generally do not have an “asset limit.” Receiving a tax refund or stimulus check will not jeopardize your monthly benefits.
| Want to know more about SSDI? Check the in-depth SSDI guide |
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is different. It is a needs-based program with a strict $2,000 asset limit for individuals ($3,000 for couples). Usually, if you have more than $2,000 in your bank account at the end of the month, you lose your benefits.
The “12-Month Exclusion” Rule
According to SSA Resource Guidelines, federal tax refunds and certain state assistance payments are not counted as a resource for 12 months.
- What this means: You can keep that money in your account for one year without it hurting your SSI eligibility.
- The Danger Zone: After 12 months, any unspent money will count toward your $2,000 limit. If you are over the limit, your benefits could be suspended.
The High Cost of Living with a Disability: Key Expenses
Living with a disability carries higher-than-average expenses. Relief payments are often used to cover:
- Medical Gaps: Co-pays for therapies, counseling, and prescriptions are not fully covered by Medicare/Medicaid.
- Home Accommodations: Upfront costs for wheelchair ramps, grab bars, or smart home technology.
- Service Delivery: Delivery fees for groceries or medications when mobility is limited.
- Care Expenses: Out-of-pocket costs for chore helpers or part-time caregivers.
What If I Missed a Previous Stimulus Payment?
The deadline to claim the “Recovery Rebate Credit” for the 2021 stimulus check ($1,400) was April 15, 2025.
If you missed the deadline, you generally cannot claim this money anymore.
Exceptions: If you filed for a tax extension or are in a combat zone, you might still have time. Consult a tax professional or check the IRS Recovery Rebate page immediately.
Warning: Stimulus Check Scams Targeting Disability Recipients
Scammers frequently target SSI and SSDI recipients with fake promises of a “4th check.” Be aware of the signs:
- “Pay to Play”: The IRS will never ask you to pay a fee to receive your benefit.
- Phone Calls: The IRS communicates via mail, not unsolicited phone calls, texts, or emails asking for your Social Security Number.
- Social Media: No government official will contact you via Facebook or Twitter regarding a stimulus check. If you see a scam, report it to the FTC Fraud Report or IRS Imposter Scams.
Conclusion
While a 4th federal stimulus check is not on the way, protecting the benefits you do have is vital. If you are struggling to make ends meet or if you believe you were unfairly denied disability benefits, you may be entitled to a higher benefit amount or back pay.
Contact Nationwide Disability Representatives today for a free evaluation of your claim status. We help ensure you get the maximum benefit you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Disability Stimulus Checks
Q: Is there a $1,400 stimulus check for seniors in 2026?
A: No. Currently, there is no legislation approved for a new federal stimulus check. However, the 2026 COLA will increase monthly Social Security payments by approximately 2.8%.
Q: Will a state tax rebate disqualify me from SSI?
A: Generally, no. Most state relief payments and tax refunds are excluded from your $2,000 SSI resource limit for 12 months from the date of receipt.
Q: Do I need to file taxes to get the COLA increase?
A: No. The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is automatically applied to your SSA or SSI benefits starting in January. You do not need to file a tax return to receive it.
Q: Can the government take my tax refund for student loans?
A: It depends. While pandemic-era pauses stopped this, standard offsets for defaulted federal student loans or child support arrears may resume. Check with the Treasury Offset Program if you have outstanding debt.
Q: Where can I check if my state is sending a rebate?
A: Check your state’s Department of Revenue website. Look for “Property Tax Rebates,” “Inflation Relief,” or “Surplus Refunds.”
