While any federal stimulus package is unlikely at this time, several states and cities have created their own initiatives. California is one of them, having distributed 12.3 million stimulus payments totaling approximately $8.8 billion.
These were distributed as part of two initiatives: Golden State Stimulus I and Golden State Stimulus II. These stimulus checks have a maximum value of $1,200 and $1,100, respectively.
Gov. Gavin Newsom's initial budget proposal for 2021 featured what became known as Golden State Stimulus I. An expanded version of the program, which sent checks to millions more residents, was introduced in June and was eventually included in Newsom's 2021-2022 budget, which he signed in July.
In January, Newsom announced a massive $286 billion budget proposal for the 2022 budget year.
While the governor's proposed budget does not include another round of Golden State Stimulus checks, he did leave the door open to more tax rebates this year as the state works out what to do with its big budget excess, which might surpass California's constitutional limit.
Californians must earn less than $75,000 per year and have paid their 2020 taxes before Oct. 15, 2021 to be eligible for either check.
While the state's franchise tax board (FTB) estimates that more than 99% of stimulus checks have been distributed, hundreds more are expected to get rewards.
The combined programs' payments are expected to reach an additional 60,000 to 70,000 residents.
Who will receive the funds?
The deadline for people who required to file a state tax return and applied for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) by Oct.15 has gone. However, a "small number" of people who filed their state returns on time will receive a stimulus payout.
Meanwhile, the majority of the remaining payments will be made to non-residents who filed amended state income tax forms.
"The amended and non-resident tax returns require more time-consuming, manual review to confirm GSS eligibility and the proper amount of payment," the FTB's public affairs office told The Sun.
When will the checks go out?
In mid-March and mid-April, the Golden State stimulus checks will be sent in two waves. The first half of these payments will be sent via direct deposit, and the second half will be sent by mail.
Direct deposits usually arrive within a few business days, but checks can take up to three weeks to arrive.
