New Relief Check Approved: Who Qualifies for the Automatic Payment in Puerto Rico?

Hundreds of thousands of residents in Puerto Rico could soon receive a new automatic relief payment after local officials approved a major tax relief measure.

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced that payments are expected to begin before the end of May, with money sent automatically through direct deposit for eligible taxpayers.

The program is expected to distribute about $554 million overall.

Who qualifies for the relief payment?

According to Puerto Rico’s Treasury Department, taxpayers must meet several conditions to receive the payment.

You may qualify if you:

• Filed your 2025 tax return on time
• Lived in Puerto Rico for all of 2025
• Had net taxable income of $150,000 or less
• Did not choose the Optional Tax system
• Are not subject to the alternative basic tax

The relief is mainly aimed at middle- and lower-income workers and families.

Which workers could receive payments?

Officials say the program could benefit:

• Teachers
• Nurses
• Firefighters
• Social workers
• Administrative employees
• Retirees and veterans
• Other working professionals with dependents

The final payment amount depends on:

• Income level
• Marital status
• Number of dependents claimed

How the payments will be sent

The Treasury Department said payments will be automatic for many taxpayers.

• Direct deposits will go to the same bank account used on 2025 tax returns
• People without refund information may need to update banking details through the SURI system
• Paper checks may be mailed to those without bank accounts

Payments are expected to roll out every two weeks.

Tax bracket changes also approved

The approved plan also updates several Puerto Rico tax brackets.

Under the proposed changes:

• Some lower and middle-income earners may face reduced tax rates
• New income thresholds expand lower tax brackets
• The goal is to reduce the tax burden for many households

Bottom line

Puerto Rico’s new relief payment program could send automatic checks to nearly 690,000 taxpayers before the end of May.

Residents who filed taxes on time and meet the income requirements may receive payments automatically through direct deposit or mailed checks.

-

At InflationRelief.net, we're committed to helping you navigate life’s financial challenges.

Keep exploring for tips and insights to help you live your best life!