Introduction
As 2026 begins, online searches for “$1,130 stimulus payments scheduled to begin” have spiked dramatically, with many people wondering if this is a new federal stimulus check, an IRS relief payment, or part of a broader economic support program. The short answer: there is no new nationwide federal stimulus payment of $1,130 (or any fixed amount) scheduled to begin in 2026. No legislation has passed Congress, and neither the IRS nor the Treasury has announced any new round of economic impact payments for this year. The $1,130 figure is most commonly linked to Colorado’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) refund program, where the state returns excess revenue to eligible taxpayers—often in amounts around or up to $1,130 for individuals in certain filing years. Some confusion also arises from routine benefit adjustments, tax refunds, or recycled misinformation. This 2026 stimulus update clarifies the facts behind the $1,130 claims, explains who actually qualifies for Colorado TABOR refunds, expected timing, and why the idea of a national $1,130 payment remains unfounded.
7 Key Facts About the $1,130 Payment Claims in 2026
- No Federal $1,130 Stimulus Exists in 2026 Congress has not authorized any new federal stimulus checks in 2026. The last broad economic impact payments ended in 2021. Any future nationwide relief would require new legislation and public announcement—none of which has occurred as of January 2026.
- $1,130 Primarily Refers to Colorado TABOR Refunds Under Colorado’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), the state must refund surplus revenue to taxpayers when collections exceed the constitutional growth limit. For tax year 2024 (refunds issued in 2025–2026), many eligible full-year residents received refunds up to $1,130 (single filers) or higher for joint returns, depending on income and filing status.
- Who Qualifies for Colorado’s TABOR Refunds To receive a TABOR refund, you must have:
- Been a full-year Colorado resident for the qualifying tax year
- Filed a timely Colorado state income tax return (Form 104 or equivalent)
- Had Colorado taxable income (no strict income cap, but higher earners often receive smaller proportional refunds) Most refunds are issued automatically if you filed; no separate application is needed.
- Timing of TABOR Payments in Early 2026 The bulk of 2025 TABOR refunds were distributed in late 2025 via direct deposit or mailed checks. Remaining or late-processed payments (e.g., amended returns, PTCRE rebates for seniors/disabled, or follow-ups) can continue into January–March 2026. Check the Colorado Department of Revenue’s “My Refund” portal for personalized status.
- Other Possible Sources of Similar Amounts
- Tax refunds — Early 2026 filers claiming EITC, ACTC, or other credits may receive refunds near $1,130, but these are individual tax returns—not stimulus.
- State-specific rebates — A few other states have small rebate programs, but none match $1,130 universally in 2026.
- Social Security/SSI — Routine COLA-adjusted payments or back pay do not align with $1,130 as a standard amount.
- Scams and Viral Misinformation Warnings Many “$1,130 stimulus beginning now” posts lead to fake websites, phishing attempts, or urgent “claim” messages. The IRS and state agencies never require you to enter personal information or pay fees to receive legitimate refunds or benefits. Always verify through official portals: IRS.gov, colorado.gov/revenue, or SSA.gov.
- What to Do If You’re Expecting a Payment
- Colorado residents: Log into the Colorado Department of Revenue portal or check your last tax return status.
- Everyone else: Monitor official IRS news for any future relief announcements (none currently planned).
- Avoid clicking suspicious links or sharing details with unverified “stimulus” claims.
Conclusion
The idea of $1,130 stimulus payments scheduled to begin in 2026 is not accurate on a national level—no federal program is distributing this amount. The $1,130 figure most likely refers to Colorado’s TABOR surplus refunds, which many eligible residents already received in 2025, with some remaining payments or follow-ups possible into early 2026. Outside of state-specific programs like TABOR, no broad federal stimulus, IRS relief check, or automatic $1,130 payment is scheduled or approved for 2026. Stay cautious of viral claims promising easy money—legitimate benefits and refunds arrive automatically or through official filing, never by clicking links or paying fees. Check trusted government websites (IRS.gov, colorado.gov, SSA.gov) for accurate information, and focus on real sources of support like tax refunds, existing benefits, or state rebates rather than unconfirmed stimulus rumors.