When do I get my stimulus check? This is a question that has been on the minds of many Americans since the COVID-19 pandemic began. With the government’s efforts to provide financial relief to individuals and families affected by the crisis, stimulus checks have become a lifeline for many. Understanding the timeline and eligibility criteria for these checks is crucial for those waiting to receive their much-needed funds.
The first round of stimulus checks, also known as Economic Impact Payments, was authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act in March 2020. The IRS began distributing these checks to eligible individuals and families soon after. The second round of stimulus checks was signed into law in December 2020, followed by a third round in March 2021.
Eligibility for stimulus checks is based on several factors, including filing status, age, and income. Generally, eligible individuals who filed a 2019 or 2020 tax return, or who received Social Security benefits, Railroad Retirement benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, should have received their stimulus check automatically.
The IRS used the information from these tax returns or benefit records to determine the amount of the stimulus check. For eligible individuals, the first stimulus check was $1,200, plus $500 for each qualifying child. The second and third rounds of stimulus checks provided $600 and $1,400, respectively, plus $600 for each qualifying child.
When can you expect to receive your stimulus check? The timeline for receiving your stimulus check depends on several factors, including your filing status, the IRS’s processing time, and whether you have direct deposit information on file with the IRS.
Individuals who have direct deposit information on file with the IRS typically receive their stimulus checks within a few days after the IRS processes their payment. Those who do not have direct deposit information may receive their stimulus check by mail in the form of a paper check or a debit card.
If you have not yet received your stimulus check, you can check the status of your payment using the IRS’s Get My Payment tool. This tool allows you to enter your Social Security number, filing status, and amount of your last refund to determine when your stimulus check was sent and when you can expect to receive it.
It’s important to note that the IRS may take several weeks to process stimulus checks, especially for those who have not provided direct deposit information or who have complex tax situations. In such cases, patience is key.
If you believe you are eligible for a stimulus check but have not received it, you may need to file a tax return to claim the payment. The IRS has extended the tax filing deadline for individuals to May 17, 2021, to provide more time for taxpayers to file and claim any missing stimulus payments.
In conclusion, the question “when do I get my stimulus check” can be answered by understanding the eligibility criteria, the IRS’s processing timeline, and the importance of having direct deposit information on file. By staying informed and utilizing the IRS’s resources, you can ensure that you receive your stimulus check in a timely manner.
