Last Chance: Stimulus Checks for ITIN Immigrants – Apply by April 30!

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have lasting economic effects, many individuals and families are still facing financial hardships. While federal stimulus payments primarily targeted U.S. citizens and permanent residents with Social Security Numbers (SSNs), immigrants with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) were largely excluded from the relief. However, some states and localities have stepped up to offer their own assistance, providing a lifeline for immigrants who have been struggling.

In this article, we’ll explore the opportunities available for immigrants with ITINs, the programs they may qualify for, and key deadlines you need to know.

The Federal Stimulus Payments and ITINs

The federal stimulus checks, issued as part of the CARES Act and subsequent relief packages in 2020 and 2021, were aimed at U.S. citizens and certain legal residents. However, immigrants who filed taxes using an ITIN instead of an SSN were not eligible for these payments.

This exclusion led to widespread frustration within the immigrant community, as many essential workers—particularly in industries like agriculture, construction, and hospitality—had continued to contribute to the economy without receiving any direct relief.

The exclusion of ITIN holders from federal stimulus programs prompted several states and local governments to step in, offering aid to immigrants who were otherwise left out of the federal relief measures.

State and Local Programs for Immigrants with ITINs

While federal relief programs may have excluded immigrants with ITINs, several states and local governments introduced their own initiatives to address this gap. These programs have provided financial assistance to those who did not qualify for federal stimulus checks.

One of the most notable programs was the California Immigrant Resilience Fund (CIRF). Established during the pandemic, this fund provided emergency financial assistance to undocumented immigrants who were excluded from federal stimulus payments.

While programs like CIRF were implemented on a state level, similar initiatives existed in other states, including New York, Washington, and Illinois, each offering varying amounts of financial relief.

For instance, New York’s Excluded Workers Fund provided one-time payments of up to $15,600 to undocumented workers who lost income during the pandemic. Illinois also introduced the Illinois Undocumented Worker Relief Fund, offering assistance to immigrants who had been excluded from federal relief. These programs were aimed at providing a safety net for immigrant workers who remained essential during the pandemic but were not eligible for federal support.

A Deadline to Remember – April 30

As of now, several programs providing financial assistance to immigrants with ITINs have set application deadlines, which are crucial for applicants to keep in mind. One such deadline is April 30, marking the last day to apply for certain state or local relief initiatives.

For example, the California Immigrant Resilience Fund (CIRF) is expected to close applications on April 30, 2025. Immigrants in California who have not yet applied should act quickly to ensure they are able to benefit from the program before the cutoff date.

Similarly, other states may have their own specific deadlines. Immigrants living in states with local relief programs should reach out to their state or local government websites for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines. Be sure to check with trusted community organizations, such as the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) or Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), for further guidance.

How to Apply for Relief Programs

Applying for state and local assistance programs typically involves completing an application form, providing proof of residency, and demonstrating financial hardship due to the pandemic. In some cases, applicants may need to show proof of employment, such as pay stubs or a letter from an employer, while in other instances, proof of income may be sufficient.

The application process may vary depending on the state or locality, but the basic steps usually include the following:

1. Visit the Program’s Website: Whether you are applying for the California Immigrant Resilience Fund or another local initiative, visit the program’s official website to access the application form and learn about the eligibility requirements.
2. Complete the Application Form: Most programs will ask for personal information such as your name, address, ITIN, and financial status. Some programs may also ask about your immigration status, though it’s important to note that many of these programs are designed to support undocumented workers.
3. Submit Required Documentation: Be prepared to submit supporting documents that demonstrate your eligibility, such as proof of income or a letter from your employer. In some cases, you may also need to provide a copy of your ITIN.
4. Submit the Application: After filling out the form and collecting the necessary documentation, submit the application by the program’s deadline. Don’t forget to double-check the application instructions to ensure that all materials are included.
5. Check for Updates: Once your application is submitted, be sure to keep an eye out for any updates on the status of your application. Some programs may contact you for additional information or verification.

Final Thoughts

Although federal stimulus checks for immigrants with ITINs remain unavailable, many states and localities have created their own programs to help fill this gap. With deadlines like April 30 fast approaching, immigrants who were excluded from federal relief programs should take action now to apply for available state-level assistance.

To stay informed about upcoming deadlines and to apply for financial relief, check with your state or local government websites and organizations such as the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) or Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC).

Remember: Every program has different eligibility criteria, so be sure to check the specific requirements for the relief program you wish to apply for.

If you need further assistance or have questions about your eligibility, don’t hesitate to reach out to community groups that support immigrant communities in your area.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.