$1,153 Stimulus Checks: As 2026 rolls in, many Americans are eagerly looking for financial relief, wondering if a new round of stimulus checks is on the way. A particularly intriguing rumor circulating is about $1,153 stimulus payments, but is this really happening? And, if so, who is eligible? Let’s break it down for you in a clear and friendly way, offering you both practical advice and expert insights.
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$1,153 Stimulus Checks
While the $1,153 stimulus checks you’ve heard about aren’t actually a federal stimulus program, Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program offers real financial relief for those who qualify. If you’re a worker in Minnesota who needs to take time off for personal or family medical reasons, this program is designed to help you keep your paycheck while taking care of important matters. Remember, the $1,153 isn’t a universal number—it’s an average weekly benefit, and the amount you receive will depend on your specific circumstances. But if you qualify, it could make a big difference in your ability to manage life’s unexpected challenges.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What Is the $1,153 Stimulus? | No official federal stimulus checks, but $1,153 payments are linked to Minnesota’s PFML. |
| Who Qualifies? | Minnesota workers taking paid family and medical leave in 2026 are eligible for PFML benefits. |
| How Much Can You Get? | $1,153 per week on average for workers who qualify. |
| Is This a Federal Program? | No, it is a state-level benefit from Minnesota, not federal stimulus relief. |
| How to Apply | Apply through Minnesota’s Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). |
Introduction: The $1,153 Stimulus Checks in 2026—Fact or Fiction?
You might have heard talk about $1,153 stimulus checks in 2026. With many still recovering from the economic challenges caused by the pandemic, people are on the lookout for any financial assistance that might come their way. But here’s the thing: there is no universal federal stimulus check planned for 2026 like the ones issued in previous years.
However, there’s a new state benefit that could be the source of the confusion. Minnesota has launched its Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, and depending on your earnings and eligibility, you could receive weekly payments averaging $1,153. Let’s explore exactly what this means and who can expect to benefit from it.
What Is Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)?
Understanding the Basics of PFML
The Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave program started in January 2026, and it’s designed to help workers who need to take leave for certain medical or family reasons. Under this program, workers are entitled to wage replacement while they take time off for things like:
- Personal illness or injury
- Caring for a sick family member
- Bonding with a new baby or adopting a child
- Caring for a family member with a serious health condition
To put it simply, it’s designed to help people keep their income flowing when life throws a curveball, and you need to take some time off to deal with it.
Who’s Eligible for the $1,153 Weekly Payment?
Now, here’s where the $1,153 comes in. If you’re eligible for Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave, you could receive up to $1,153 per week. This is based on your earnings and a variety of other factors, including:
- Your earnings history (the more you earn, the higher the benefit)
- The length of your time working in Minnesota
- Whether you meet the minimum requirements set by the program (e.g., working a certain number of hours)
Breaking Down the Benefits
How much can you actually get? Well, the average weekly wage replacement is around $1,153, but it can vary. The amount you get will depend on how much you’ve been earning, as well as the specific circumstances of your leave.
Let’s say you’re a full-time worker with a decent income, and you need to take time off because you’re caring for a family member. Under the PFML, you’ll get a weekly payment that replaces a significant chunk of your earnings—helping you avoid financial stress while you take care of personal matters.
But remember: this $1,153 is not a flat rate for everyone. It’s an average and will change based on your situation.
How to Apply for $1,153 Stimulus Checks?
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before you can apply for PFML, you need to make sure you’re eligible. The program is only available to workers in Minnesota who meet specific criteria. For example:
- You must have worked enough hours (Minnesota requires a minimum of 12 months of employment and 680 hours worked).
- You need to have paid into the program via payroll taxes.
Step 2: Gather Your Documentation
Next, you’ll need to provide documentation for why you’re taking leave. Whether it’s for personal medical reasons or to care for a loved one, you’ll need to submit paperwork to support your claim.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications for PFML can be submitted online through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) website. Once submitted, the team will review your application, and you’ll be notified if you’re eligible for payments.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Once your application is approved, you can start receiving weekly payments of up to $1,153, depending on your eligibility.
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