COVID-19 Stimulus Checks FAQ

1. What’s the purpose of the COVID-19 stimulus checks?

The federal government released the stimulus checks or Economic Impact Payments for two main reasons: 1. To help families struggling to stay afloat during the pandemic. 2. To stimulate the economy.

2. When were the stimulus checks approved?

The first coronavirus stimulus was approved in March 2020. The second was approved in December 2020.

3. How much are the stimulus checks?

The first stimulus offered payments of $1,200 per eligible adult and $500 per dependent child. The second followed up with lower adult payments at $600 each, while child payments were increased to $600 each.

4. Does everyone get a stimulus payment?

No, as there are eligibility requirements you must pass, such as:

• You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
• You cannot be a dependent who was claimed on somebody else’s tax return.
• You must have a Social Security number valid for employment.Y
• ou must make less than $75,000 in adjusted gross income as an individual.
• You must make less than $112,500 as a head of household filer.
• You must make less than $150,000 as a married couple filing jointly.

5. What if you make more than the income limits? Do you still get a check?

You can earn more than the limits listed above and still get a check, although it will be smaller than the max amounts. If you’re an individual, you can make up to $99,000 in adjusted gross income and still get a stimulus payment. Heads of households can make up to $136,500, while married couples’ income can go up to $198,000.

6. How are Economic Impact Payments distributed?

Your stimulus payment can come in the mail in the form of a check or a prepaid debit card. You can also get it through direct deposit. If that’s your payment method, look for the funds in the same bank account where you received your last tax refund or other federal benefits like Social Security.

7. What should you do if you haven’t received your stimulus payments yet?

Since these payments are tied to your tax returns, file a 2020 return if you’re still waiting on a payment. You’ll need to do this even if you don’t usually file tax returns. Otherwise, you won’t receive a stimulus check.

If you need help filing your tax return, you can get it at no cost through the MyFreeTaxes service. You can also get help with any other questions on your stimulus checks by contacting IRS-certified volunteers here or calling the 211 Economic Impact Payment Helpline at 844-322-3639.

8. Are there any stimulus check scams to watch out for?

Yes, and most have to do with scammers seeking your information. If you get a text, email, call, or social media message from someone pretending to be the IRS or United Way, ignore it. They may do so to ask you to verify information to receive your check as a way to steal your data.