Several states and counties in the U.S. have introduced guaranteed income initiatives, often referred to as stimulus payments, to provide direct financial help to vulnerable groups. These programs aim to reduce poverty and offer financial stability to low-income families, former foster youth, and others affected by economic hardship.
Los Angeles Breathe Program: $1,000 Monthly for Low-Income Residents
Launched in 2022, Los Angeles County’s Breathe program supports residents hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. It randomly selected 1,198 participants to receive $1,000 each month for three years, continuing through August 2025.
To qualify, participants must be over 18, live in designated low-income areas, and show financial hardship related to the pandemic. In August 2024, Breathe expanded to help former foster youth, offering $500 monthly or $1,500 quarterly for 18 months to 2,000 individuals aged 18 to 21.
Magnolia Mother’s Trust: Supporting Black Mothers in Mississippi Since 2018
The Magnolia Mother’s Trust, based in Jackson, Mississippi, is the oldest guaranteed income program in the country. It focuses on Black mothers with limited financial resources, serving over 100 participants in its fifth cohort.
Beneficiaries receive $1,000 monthly for 12 months, plus a $1,000 deposit into 529 education savings accounts for their children. The program offers optional mental health and family wellness support but places no restrictions on how the money is spent—no drug tests or work requirements.
Studies show the program has improved participants’ financial security and overall well-being.
New York’s Inflation Relief Program: Up to $400 Per Household in 2025
New York’s Inflation Relief program is set to launch in 2025 as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2026 fiscal budget. It aims to ease the rising cost of living by automatically sending payments of up to $400 to about 8 million households, based on income.
Eligibility requires state residency and a filed state tax return. Alongside the cash payments, the state will increase the Child Tax Credit to $1,000 per child and introduce universal free school meals to further support families.
A Common Goal: Unconditional Financial Support
Though these programs differ in structure, funding, and target groups, they share a key feature: unconditional cash transfers. None require beneficiaries to work, study, or meet other conditions, allowing recipients to use the money as they see fit to improve their quality of life.