Hey there, folks! As we near the end of 2020, I’m sure many of you are wondering where your second stimulus check is at. I mean, it feels like we’ve been waiting forever for it to arrive, right? With everything going on in the world, it’s no wonder that there have been hold-ups and delays when it comes to getting that extra cash in our pockets.
So, where is my 2nd stimulus check now, you may be asking? Well, the truth is that it’s not an easy answer. The government has faced a variety of obstacles when trying to get those checks out to Americans. From issues with processing and mailing to negotiations on the amount and distribution of funds, there have been quite a few hurdles to overcome. While some folks have already gotten their second checks, many of us are still waiting with bated breath.
But fear not, my friends! There are steps you can take to track your stimulus check and make sure it’s on its way to you. Whether you’re wondering about eligibility requirements or simply need help navigating the IRS website, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of stimulus check updates together.
Timeline for 2nd Stimulus Check Distribution
After months of negotiations and uncertainty, Congress finally passed a second round of stimulus checks in December 2020, as part of the larger COVID-19 relief package. The distribution of the second stimulus checks has been a topic of much discussion, with many Americans eagerly waiting for the money to arrive. If you’re wondering about the timeline for when your second stimulus check will arrive, here’s what you need to know:
- The IRS began issuing payments in late December 2020, starting with direct deposits for those who are eligible and have updated banking information on file.
- If you didn’t receive a direct deposit, paper checks and debit cards started mailing out around January 4, 2021.
- The stimulus payments are being sent out in waves, with those who have filed their taxes electronically and have their direct deposit information on file with the IRS likely to receive their payments first.
It’s worth noting that the timeline for when your stimulus check will arrive depends on several factors, including your income, filing status, and whether you have any outstanding debts or child support payments. If you’re eligible for the stimulus payment but haven’t received it yet, you can check the status of your payment on the IRS website using the “Get My Payment” tool.
It’s also important to be aware of potential scams related to the stimulus checks. The IRS will never ask you to pay anything to receive your payment, and they will not contact you via phone, email, or social media for personal or financial information. If you receive any suspicious messages or requests related to your stimulus check, don’t respond and report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission.
Overall, while the distribution of the second round of stimulus checks has been somewhat bumpy, many Americans have already received their payments, and more are likely to arrive in the coming weeks. If you’re eligible for the payment and haven’t received it yet, don’t panic – the IRS will continue to issue payments throughout the coming weeks and months.
How to track my stimulus check
If you are eagerly awaiting your second stimulus check and want to know its status, you can use various tools provided by the IRS to track your payment.
The first and most obvious option is the Get My Payment tool available on the IRS website. This tool allows you to check the status of your payment and see the payment date. To use this tool, you will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and mailing address.
Other ways to track your stimulus check
- You can also use the USPS Informed Delivery service to track your payment. This service allows you to see the mail that is being delivered to your home before it arrives. If you receive mail from the IRS, you will be able to see it in your Informed Delivery dashboard.
- If you filed a tax return using tax preparation software like TurboTax or H&R Block, you can check the status of your payment using their online tools. These companies have partnered with the IRS to provide updates on stimulus payments.
- You can also check with your bank to see if they have received your payment. If you provided bank account information on your tax return, the IRS will send your payment directly to your bank account. Contacting your bank can help you understand when the payment will be available in your account.
What to do if you encounter issues while tracking your stimulus check
If you encounter issues while tracking your stimulus check, it is important to be patient and persistent. Keep checking the Get My Payment tool and other resources regularly to see if there are any updates. If you continue to experience issues, you can contact the IRS for assistance. They have a dedicated phone line for stimulus payment inquiries: 1-800-919-9835.
The bottom line
Tracking your second stimulus check is relatively easy, and there are various tools available to help you do so. Whether you use the Get My Payment tool, Informed Delivery, tax preparation software, or your bank, make sure to check for updates regularly and be patient if you encounter any issues. With a little effort and persistence, you should be able to track down your payment and receive the financial support you need in these challenging times.
| Tool | What it Does |
|---|---|
| Get My Payment on IRS website | Allows you to check payment status and date |
| USPS Informed Delivery | Shows you mail being delivered, including IRS mail |
| Tax preparation software | Updates you on payment status if you filed with TurboTax, H&R Block, etc. |
| Your bank | Can tell you if they’ve received your payment and when it will be available |
Make sure to check regularly for updates and don’t hesitate to contact the IRS if you need assistance.
Reasons for delayed stimulus check
If you’re still waiting on your 2nd stimulus check, you’re not alone. The IRS has been working hard to send out payments as quickly as possible, but there are several reasons why your check may be delayed. Some of the most common reasons for delays include:
- Errors on tax returns: If there are errors on your tax return, such as incorrect banking information or mismatched Social Security numbers, this can delay your stimulus payment. Make sure to double-check your tax return before submitting it to avoid any mistakes.
- Identity theft: If someone has stolen your identity and used it to file a fraudulent tax return, this can cause delays in your stimulus payment. You can check to see if your identity has been stolen by visiting the IRS website and using their Identity Theft Central tool.
- Processing times: With millions of Americans waiting for their stimulus payments, it’s no surprise that there are delays in processing. The IRS is working to get payments out as quickly as possible, but there are only so many people working on this task, and they’re dealing with a massive volume of requests.
In addition to these common reasons for delays, there are also a few specific situations that could be causing your payment to be delayed. For example, if you recently moved or changed your bank account, this could cause a delay in processing your payment. You’ll need to update your address or banking information with the IRS to avoid any further delays.
If you’re still unsure why your payment is delayed, you can check the status of your payment using the IRS Get My Payment tool. This will tell you if your payment has been sent, and if there are any issues that need to be resolved before you can receive your payment.
What to do if your stimulus check is delayed
If your stimulus check is delayed, the best thing you can do is be patient. The IRS is working hard to get payments out as quickly as possible, but the sheer volume of requests is causing delays. You may also want to consider contacting your elected representatives to see if they can assist you in getting your payment more quickly.
If you’ve checked the status of your payment and you believe there’s an error or issue, you can contact the IRS directly for help. They have a dedicated stimulus payment helpline that you can call to get assistance. However, be aware that wait times may be long due to the high volume of calls they’re receiving.
Stimulus check schedule: when to expect your payment
If you’re still waiting on your stimulus check, it’s helpful to know when you can expect to receive it. The IRS has said that they are sending payments out in batches, based on income level. If you’re eligible for a stimulus payment and your income is less than $75,000 (or $150,000 for couples filing jointly), you should receive your payment by direct deposit or mail within the next few weeks.
| Income level | Direct deposit date | Mailed check or debit card date |
|---|---|---|
| Less than $10,000 | Week of January 25, 2021 | Week of February 1, 2021 |
| $10,001 – $20,000 | Week of February 1, 2021 | Week of February 8, 2021 |
| $20,001 – $30,000 | Week of February 8, 2021 | Week of February 15, 2021 |
| $30,001 – $40,000 | Week of February 15, 2021 | Week of February 22, 2021 |
| $40,001 – $50,000 | Week of February 22, 2021 | Week of March 1, 2021 |
| $50,001 – $75,000 | Week of March 1, 2021 | Week of March 8, 2021 |
If you haven’t received your stimulus payment by the dates listed in the table, don’t panic. The IRS is still working to process payments for everyone who is eligible, and you may receive your payment later than expected. Keep checking the status of your payment using the IRS Get My Payment tool, and be patient as they work to get payments out as quickly as possible.
How to Update Your Bank Information for Stimulus Check
If you did not receive your 2nd stimulus check or received it through mail, you may want to consider updating your bank information with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to avoid any delays in receiving future direct deposits. Here are the steps that you can take:
- Check if you are eligible for a stimulus payment: Visit the IRS website and use their “Get My Payment” tool. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and mailing address to check if you are eligible.
- Update your bank information online: If the IRS does not have your direct deposit information on file, you can update it using their “Get My Payment” tool. You will be asked to provide your bank routing number and account number. Be sure to double-check your information before submitting it.
- Provide your bank information on your tax return: If you did not receive a stimulus payment and did not update your bank information using the “Get My Payment” tool, you can provide your bank information when you file your tax return. You can include your bank routing number and account number on line 35 of your 2020 Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
Updating your bank information with the IRS is a simple process that can be done online. By providing your direct deposit information, you may receive your stimulus payment faster and avoid any potential delays caused by mailing your payment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Updating Your Bank Information
When updating your bank information, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid. Here are some tips to ensure that your updated information is processed smoothly:
- Double-check your bank information: Ensure that you have entered your bank routing number and account number correctly. Typos and errors can cause delays in processing your updated information.
- Use a valid bank account: Make sure that the bank account that you are providing is valid and in your name. Providing invalid or incorrect account information can result in the rejection of your updated bank information.
- Provide updated information by the deadline: If you are providing your updated bank information through your tax return, ensure that you do so by the deadline. Late filings or incorrect information can result in the delay or rejection of your stimulus payment.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your updated bank information is processed smoothly and that you receive your stimulus payment as soon as possible.
Direct Deposit vs. Mailed Check
Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your stimulus payment. If the IRS does not have your direct deposit information on file, they may mail a check to the address on your tax return or to the address on file with the Social Security Administration. However, mailed checks can take several weeks or even months to arrive, and they may be at risk of theft or loss. To avoid delays and reduce the risk of lost or stolen payments, consider updating your bank information with the IRS.
| Direct Deposit | Mailed Check |
|---|---|
| Fastest and most secure method to receive your stimulus payment | Can take several weeks or even months to arrive |
| Less likely to be lost or stolen | At risk of theft or loss |
Overall, updating your bank information with the IRS can help you receive your stimulus payment faster and more securely. By avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your updated information is processed smoothly and that you receive your payment as soon as possible.
Stimulus Check Eligibility Criteria
If you are unsure if you qualify for a second stimulus check, here is a rundown of the eligibility criteria:
- Income: Individuals with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of up to $75,000, heads of households with an AGI of up to $112,500, and married couples filing jointly with an AGI of up to $150,000 are eligible for the full amount of $600. For those that exceed these income limits, the amount of the stimulus check will be reduced or phased out completely.
- Citizenship: In order to qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or a resident alien.
- Dependent Status: The income threshold for dependents has been increased in the second round of stimulus checks, allowing dependents of any age to be eligible for a $600 payment. This includes children under the age of 17 as well as adult dependents such as college students and elderly parents.
- Tax Filing Status: To receive a stimulus check, you must have filed a tax return in either 2018 or 2019. If you are not required to file taxes, you can still receive a stimulus check by using the non-filers tool on the IRS website to provide your information.
- Other Criteria: If you are incarcerated, a nonresident alien, or someone who can be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return, you are not eligible for a stimulus check.
Additional Information
If you qualify for a second stimulus check but have not yet received it, there may be several reasons why. It is possible that there is a delay in processing your payment, or that the information that the IRS has on file for you is incorrect or outdated. You can check the status of your payment on the IRS website using the Get My Payment tool.
It is important to note that the eligibility criteria and payment amount for the second stimulus check are subject to change, as negotiations for a third round of stimulus checks are ongoing.
Income Thresholds for Reduced Payment
If your income exceeds the following thresholds, your stimulus payment will be reduced:
| Filing Status | Adjusted Gross Income |
|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 – $87,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 – $124,500 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 – $174,000 |
If your income exceeds the upper threshold, you will not be eligible for a second stimulus check. If your income falls within the reduced payment range, the amount of the stimulus check will be determined by a formula that takes into account your income, filing status, and number of dependents.
Differences between first and second stimulus checks
The United States government has issued two rounds of stimulus checks to help Americans dealing with financial struggles due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While both rounds of stimulus checks were intended to provide financial relief for eligible Americans, there are a few key differences between the two.
First Stimulus Check vs. Second Stimulus Check: Similarities and Differences
- $1200 maximum amount: The maximum amount an individual could receive in the first round of stimulus checks was $1,200, which is the same as the second round of stimulus checks.
- Income eligibility requirements: Eligibility for both rounds of stimulus checks was based on your 2018 or 2019 tax return and factors such as your adjusted gross income (AGI). However, the income limits and phaseout thresholds were different for the two rounds of payments.
- Dependents: The amount given for dependents was one of the biggest differences between the first and second rounds of stimulus payments. While the first round of stimulus checks only included $500 per dependent under age 17, the second round included $600 per qualified dependent of any age.
- Timing: The stimulus checks were released at different times in 2020 and 2021, as the government worked to expedite the second round of payments and get them out faster than the first round.
First Stimulus Check vs. Second Stimulus Check: Details
In addition to the similarities and differences listed above, there were a few other details that set the first stimulus check apart from the second.
- Payment method: The first round of checks were issued by the IRS through direct deposit, checks in the mail, and debit cards, while the second round only included direct deposit and paper checks.
- Deadline for non-filers: In the first round of payments, non-filers were given an extra opportunity to apply for stimulus payments until November 2020. There was no such extension for the second round.
First Stimulus Check vs. Second Stimulus Check: Payment Schedules
There were also differences in the timing of the two rounds of payments. While the exact timing varied by individual, generally speaking:
| First Stimulus Payment | Second Stimulus Payment |
|---|---|
| Began in April 2020 / Completed by January 2021 | Began in December 2020 / Completed by March 2021 |
| Non-filers allowed to claim through November 2020 | No extension provided for non-filers to claim |
| Up to $500 per child dependent under age 17 | Up to $600 per qualified dependent of any age |
Overall, while the two rounds of stimulus checks shared similarities, there were some clear differences between the two rounds. Regardless of the differences, both payments offered much-needed relief for Americans struggling with the financial impact of the pandemic.
Potential impact of second stimulus check on economy
The second stimulus check, which was approved as part of the COVID-19 relief package, is aimed at providing financial assistance to millions of Americans struggling due to the pandemic. While the primary goal of the stimulus check is to help individuals and families meet their basic needs, the impact of the stimulus check on the economy as a whole cannot be overlooked. Here are some potential impacts the second stimulus check could have on the economy:
- Increased spending: The stimulus check is likely to increase consumer spending, which will provide a boost to businesses especially those in retail and hospitality industries. Increased spending can help businesses grow and hire more workers, which can contribute to economic growth.
- Reduced debts: Some people may use the stimulus check to pay off debts that are weighing them down. This can help individuals improve their financial situation which in turn can lead to increased financial stability and economic growth.
- Stimulating housing market: The second stimulus check may encourage people to put their stimulus money towards a down payment on a new home. This can help the housing market which has been struggling due to the pandemic.
According to a recent study by the Economic Policy Institute, the second stimulus check will create or save 4.5 million jobs over the next year. This is due to the increased consumer spending and the boost to the economy that the stimulus check will provide. The study also estimates that the second stimulus check will increase GDP by 3.7% by the end of 2021.
| Impact | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Increased consumer spending | Boost for businesses and retail industry |
| Debt reduction | Improvement in personal finance and increased financial stability |
| Stimulating housing market | Recovery of the housing market |
In conclusion, the second stimulus check has the potential to help stabilize the economy by boosting consumer spending and increasing financial stability. It is important to note, however, that the impact of the stimulus check on the economy is not certain and will depend on a variety of factors. Nonetheless, it is a ray of hope to millions of people who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Where is My 2nd Stimulus Check Now?
1. I still haven’t received my 2nd stimulus check. What should I do?
First, make sure you’re eligible to receive it. Then, check the IRS “Get My Payment” tool to see if it has been sent. If not, contact the IRS for more information.
2. Will my 2nd stimulus check be mailed or direct deposited?
It depends on how you received your first stimulus payment. If you received it via direct deposit, the 2nd payment will likely also be deposited directly. If you received a physical check in the mail, the 2nd payment will also arrive via mail.
3. What if I moved since I received my first stimulus check?
You should update your address with the IRS using the “Change of Address” form on their website. This will ensure the check is sent to the correct address.
4. I received my first stimulus check, but haven’t received the 2nd one yet. Is there a delay?
There may be a delay due to high volume or processing issues. The best thing to do is to check the “Get My Payment” tool for updates and contact the IRS if necessary.
5. What if I’m not eligible for the 2nd stimulus payment?
If you did not receive payment for the first stimulus or did not file a tax return for 2019 or 2018, you may not be eligible for the 2nd stimulus payment. Check with the IRS for more information.
6. Can I track the status of my 2nd stimulus check?
Yes, you can use the “Get My Payment” tool on the IRS website to track your payment status and receive updates on when it will be sent.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our article on “where is my 2nd stimulus check now.” We hope we provided you with valuable information on how to track the status of your payment and what to do if you haven’t received it yet. Keep checking the “Get My Payment” tool for updates and reach out to the IRS if you have any further questions. Don’t forget to come back and visit our website for more helpful articles!