Are they still sending out stimulus checks? It’s the million-dollar question that’s on everyone’s mind these days. With the pandemic still wreaking havoc on businesses and individuals, it’s hard not to wonder whether or not there’s any financial relief on the horizon. After all, the first round of stimulus checks was a lifeline for many Americans, and it’s understandable to want to know if there’s a chance of getting another one.
Of course, the answer to this question is not as straightforward as we’d like it to be. While there have been talks of a second stimulus check, there hasn’t been any official announcement yet. In fact, lawmakers have been going back and forth on whether or not to pass another relief bill. Some argue that it’s necessary to help struggling individuals and businesses, while others believe it’s not the best way to stimulate the economy. Regardless of where you stand on this issue, one thing is for sure: Americans are in dire need of financial support during these trying times.
So, what can we do while we wait for an answer? It’s important to stay informed and up-to-date on any developments regarding the stimulus checks. Keep an eye on the news and government websites to see if there are any changes. Additionally, try to find other ways to improve your financial situation, such as applying for unemployment benefits or seeking out additional sources of income. While it can be frustrating to wait for answers, there is always something we can do to take matters into our own hands.
The Stimulus Check Timeline
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in the United States, the government has been working on a plan to provide financial assistance to the citizens. One of the ways they are doing this is through stimulus checks. Here is a timeline of when the stimulus checks were sent out:
- April 2020 – The first stimulus checks were sent out. These were payments of up to $1,200 per person for those who qualified.
- December 2020 – Another round of stimulus checks was approved. These payments were up to $600 per person for those who qualified.
- March 2021 – The third round of stimulus checks was passed. These payments were up to $1,400 per person for those who qualified.
How to Check the Status of Your Stimulus Check
If you are wondering about the status of your stimulus check, you can check the IRS website. They have a tool called “Get My Payment” that allows you to track your payment status. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and mailing address to use this tool.
Stimulus Check Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a stimulus check, there are a few eligibility requirements that you must meet. These requirements include:
- Being a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or qualifying resident alien
- Having a valid Social Security number
- Not being claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
- Having a certain income level (varies based on the specific stimulus payment)
Stimulus Check Payment Schedule
The payment schedule for stimulus checks varies based on your individual circumstances. Typically, the payments are sent out in waves based on income level and other qualifying factors. If you have already received a stimulus check, you should expect to receive any additional payments in the same manner. If you haven’t received a stimulus check yet, you can check the IRS website to see when your payment is scheduled to arrive.
| Stimulus Payment | Payment Schedule |
|---|---|
| First Stimulus Payment | April – December 2020 |
| Second Stimulus Payment | December 2020 – February 2021 |
| Third Stimulus Payment | March – April 2021 (ongoing) |
Overall, the stimulus check timeline has been a fluid process. However, the government is continuing to work on ways to provide financial assistance to those who are struggling due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
How to Track Your Stimulus Check
As many people are eagerly anticipating their stimulus payments, it is important to know when it will arrive. Thankfully, the IRS provides multiple ways of tracking your stimulus check:
- Get My Payment tool: The IRS has an online portal that allows you to check the status of your stimulus payment. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and mailing address.
- IRS2Go app: The IRS also has a mobile app that allows you to check the status of your stimulus payment. You will need to provide the same information as the online portal.
- Call the IRS: If you do not have access to the internet or a smartphone, you can call the IRS hotline at 1-800-919-9835 to check the status of your payment.
If you are having trouble using the online portal or mobile app, the IRS provides a list of common error messages and solutions on their website. Additionally, it is important to note that the status of your payment may not update immediately and could take a few days to appear.
Stimulus Check Payment Schedule
The IRS has also provided a payment schedule for the stimulus checks, which is based on your income and filing status. The following table shows the payment schedule:
| Filing Status | Income | Payment Date |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Less than $75,000 | First batch of payments sent on March 26, 2021 |
| Single | $75,000-$80,000 | Payments sent between March 27-April 10, 2021 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Less than $150,000 | First batch of payments sent on March 26, 2021 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000-$160,000 | Payments sent between March 27-April 10, 2021 |
Keep in mind that these dates are subject to change and may be updated by the IRS. It is always a good idea to check the status of your payment using one of the methods listed above.
Eligibility Requirements for the Stimulus Check
The 2021 stimulus package provides up to $1,400 to eligible individuals and $2,800 to eligible couples, as well as an additional $1,400 for each dependent. However, not everyone is eligible for this financial aid. Here are the eligibility requirements that you need to meet in order to receive your stimulus check:
- You must be a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or a qualifying resident alien with a valid Social Security number. Nonresident aliens are not eligible for this stimulus payment.
- You must have filed taxes for 2019 or 2020 or you must register online with the IRS to claim your payment.
- Your adjusted gross income (AGI) must be below certain limits. For the third stimulus check, the payment starts to phase out for those earning more than $75,000 (single filers), $112,500 (head of household), and $150,000 (joint filers). The payment is completely phased out for individuals earning $80,000 or more, head of household filers earning $120,000 or more, and joint filers earning $160,000 or more.
- You must not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
If you meet all of the eligibility requirements but still haven’t received your stimulus payment, you can check the status of your payment online using the “Get My Payment” tool on the IRS website. Additionally, you can claim any missing payments on your 2021 tax returns. It’s important to make sure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements before claiming your stimulus payment to avoid potential tax penalties and repayments.
Unclaimed Stimulus Checks: What to Do
If you have not received your stimulus check, or you believe that you are missing a payment, there are several things you can do to resolve the issue. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that you receive the money you are owed.
Check the Status of Your Payment
- The first thing you should do is check the status of your payment. You can do this by visiting the IRS website and using their “Get My Payment” tool.
- If your payment status is listed as “Not Available,” it may indicate that the IRS does not have enough information to issue a payment. You may need to provide additional information, such as your banking details or your social security number.
- If your payment status is listed as “Sent,” it means that the payment has been issued, but it may take a few days for it to arrive.
File a Claim
If you have not received your payment and you believe that you are eligible, you can file a claim with the IRS. You can do this by filling out a “Payment Trace” form, which requires you to provide detailed information about your payment. This process may take several weeks, but it may be worth it if you are owed a significant sum of money.
Check for Unclaimed Funds
In some cases, stimulus payments may have been sent to the wrong address or account. If this happens, the payment may be returned to the IRS and marked as “undeliverable.” You can check for unclaimed funds by visiting the IRS website and using their “Where’s My Refund?” tool. This will allow you to see if there are any unclaimed payments that you may be entitled to.
| Reasons for Unclaimed Payments | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Incorrect or outdated mailing address | Update your mailing address with the IRS |
| Bank account closure or error | Contact the bank or set up a new bank account with the IRS |
| Identity theft or fraud | Contact the IRS and report the issue |
If you believe that you are owed a stimulus payment, it is important to take action to ensure that you receive it. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of getting the money you are owed.
The Economic Impact Payment Vs. Tax Refunds
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States government has implemented various relief measures, including sending out stimulus payments to eligible individuals and households. However, some confusion may arise when distinguishing between Economic Impact Payments (EIP) and tax refunds. Here, we break down the key differences between the two.
EIP vs Tax Refunds: What’s the Difference?
- An EIP is a one-time payment distributed by the government to eligible individuals and households to offset the economic impact of the pandemic.
- A tax refund, on the other hand, is a reimbursement of overpaid taxes from the previous year.
- EIPs are generally not taxable nor do they count as income.
- In contrast, tax refunds are subject to federal income tax.
- If the IRS determines that an individual is eligible for both an EIP and a tax refund, they will receive both payments separately.
Claiming Your EIP
If you are eligible for an EIP but have not received one yet, you may need to claim it on your tax return as a Recovery Rebate Credit. This is especially true if you did not file a tax return in 2019 or 2020 and did not receive non-filer assistance in claiming your payment.
Fortunately, the IRS offers guidance and resources for those who need to claim their EIP, including the option to file electronically for free through the IRS Free File program.
EIPs and Tax Refunds: A Comparison Table
| Economic Impact Payment (EIP) | Tax Refund | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A one-time payment distributed by the government to eligible individuals and households to offset the economic impact of the pandemic. | A reimbursement of overpaid taxes from the previous year. |
| Taxability | Generally not taxable nor do they count as income. | Subject to federal income tax. |
| Claiming Process | Automatic for those who filed a tax return in 2019 or 2020 or received non-filer assistance. Otherwise, may need to claim as a Recovery Rebate Credit on tax return. | Filed through tax return. Can be done electronically for free through the IRS Free File program. |
Understanding the differences between EIPs and tax refunds is crucial in navigating the current relief measures put in place by the government. If you have questions or need assistance in claiming your EIP or tax refund, it is recommended to seek help from a qualified tax professional or the IRS directly.
Stimulus Checks for Dependents and College Students
If you have dependents or college students in your family, you may be wondering if they are eligible for a stimulus check. The answer is yes, but there are some important factors to consider.
- Dependents: Stimulus checks are available for dependents under the age of 17. This means that parents will receive an additional $500 for each qualifying child included in their household. However, if your child is over 17 years old and claimed as a dependent on your tax return, they will not be eligible for a stimulus check.
- College Students: College students are also eligible for stimulus checks if they meet certain requirements. If the student is under the age of 24 and claimed as a dependent on their parents’ tax return, they will not receive a stimulus check. However, if the student is not claimed as a dependent and meets the income requirements, they will be eligible for the full amount of the stimulus check.
- Qualifying Expenses: If you have dependents or college students in your household who are eligible for a stimulus check, it’s important to remember that the money can be put towards qualifying expenses. This includes things like rent, utilities, and groceries, which can help ease the financial burden during these difficult times.
It’s also important to note that if you have not received a stimulus check for your eligible dependents or college students, you may still be able to claim the money on your tax return. Be sure to consult with a tax professional or visit the IRS website for more information.
Overall, stimulus checks for dependents and college students can be a much-needed relief during these uncertain times. By understanding the eligibility requirements and qualifying expenses, you can ensure that your family receives the financial support they need.
| Dependent Age | Qualification |
|---|---|
| Under 17 | Eligible for additional $500 stimulus check |
| Over 17 and claimed as dependent | Not eligible for stimulus check |
| Under 24 and claimed as dependent | Not eligible for stimulus check |
| Not claimed as dependent | Eligible for full stimulus check if income requirements are met |
Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about stimulus checks for dependents or college students, be sure to reach out to a trusted financial advisor or consult the IRS website for official updates and information.
Fraud and Scams Related to Stimulus Checks
As the government continues to distribute stimulus checks, scammers are finding new ways to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Here are some of the most common fraud and scams related to stimulus checks:
- Phishing – Scammers may send fake emails or text messages posing as the IRS or other government agencies requesting personal and financial information to “verify” your eligibility for a stimulus check. It is important to remember that the government will never contact you for this information via email or text message.
- Fake Checks – Scammers may send fake stimulus checks or direct deposit forms and request personal information in return. They may also ask for a fee to process the check or direct deposit. It is important to ensure that any checks or forms are legitimate before sharing any personal information or paying any fees.
- Robocalls – Scammers may use robocalls to impersonate government officials and request personal and financial information to issue a stimulus check. It is important to hang up immediately and never share any personal information over the phone.
If you have received a suspicious email, text message, phone call, or check related to stimulus checks, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov/complaint or call 1-877-FTC-HELP.
Protecting Yourself from Stimulus Check Fraud and Scams
To protect yourself from stimulus check fraud and scams:
- Be skeptical of unsolicited correspondence related to stimulus checks, especially if it requests personal or financial information.
- Double check the legitimacy of any correspondence related to stimulus checks before sharing personal information or paying any fees.
- Report any suspicious activity to the FTC.
- Stay informed about the latest types of fraud and scams related to stimulus checks and how to protect yourself.
IRS Stimulus Check Fraud and Scams
The IRS has also reported an increase in scams related to stimulus checks. Here are some of the most common forms:
| Fraud/Scam Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Identity Theft | Scammers may use personal information obtained through phishing or other means to claim a stimulus check on behalf of the victim. |
| Deposit Scams | Scammers may pose as the IRS and instruct individuals to deposit their stimulus check into a fake account. |
| Compromised Checks | Scammers may steal physical stimulus checks from mailboxes or homes. |
The IRS will never request personal or financial information via email, text message, or social media. If you receive any suspicious correspondence from the IRS, report it to them immediately.
By staying informed and aware of common fraud and scams related to stimulus checks, you can protect yourself and ensure that you receive your stimulus check safely and without incident.
Are They Still Sending Out Stimulus Checks?
1. Can I still receive a stimulus check?
Yes, if you are eligible and did not receive the first two rounds of stimulus checks, you may still receive a payment.
2. Who is eligible for a stimulus check?
Individuals with an adjusted gross income of up to $75,000, heads of households with an AGI up to $112,500, and married couples filing jointly with an AGI up to $150,000 may be eligible for a stimulus check.
3. How much will the stimulus check be?
The third stimulus check will be up to $1,400 for eligible individuals and up to $2,800 for couples filing jointly.
4. When will the stimulus checks be sent out?
Stimulus checks are currently being sent out, and timing can vary depending on several factors, including tax filings and direct deposit information.
5. What if I haven’t filed my taxes yet?
As long as you are eligible, you can still receive a stimulus check even if you have not yet filed your 2020 taxes.
6. What if I have questions about my stimulus check?
The best way to get more information about your stimulus check is to check the IRS website or contact your tax professional for advice.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading! If you’re still waiting on your stimulus check, keep in mind that the process may take some time due to a high volume of payments being sent out. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the IRS or a qualified tax professional. Stay safe and be well. Visit our website again later for more updates.