Who gets a stimulus check? This question has been on the minds of many Americans as the country continues to grapple with the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stimulus checks, also known as economic impact payments, are a key component of the government’s efforts to provide financial relief to individuals and families affected by the crisis. Understanding who qualifies for these checks is crucial for those seeking financial assistance during these challenging times.
The first round of stimulus checks, authorized by the CARES Act, provided $1,200 to eligible individuals and $500 for each qualifying dependent. The eligibility criteria were quite broad, encompassing most adults with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) below $75,000, heads of household with AGI below $112,500, and married couples filing jointly with AGI below $150,000. However, there were some nuances to consider, such as the phaseout of eligibility for higher-income individuals.
Eligibility for the second stimulus check, authorized by the Economic Aid to Families, Education, and Health (EACH) Act, remained largely similar to the first round. Eligible individuals were required to have a Social Security number and a valid filing status, and their AGI had to be below certain thresholds. For individuals, the threshold was $75,000, for heads of household, it was $112,500, and for married couples filing jointly, it was $150,000. Additionally, nonresident aliens, individuals with a filing status of married filing separately, and individuals who were claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return were not eligible for the second stimulus check.
One of the most significant changes in the second round of stimulus checks was the inclusion of dependents who were 17 years old or older. This expansion meant that eligible individuals could receive $1,400 for themselves and $1,400 for each qualifying dependent, including children up to age 17. The phaseout for higher-income individuals also changed, with the threshold reduced to $80,000 for individuals, $120,000 for heads of household, and $160,000 for married couples filing jointly.
It’s important to note that individuals who did not file a tax return or have a filing requirement may still be eligible for a stimulus check. The IRS used information from tax returns, Social Security, Railroad Retirement Board, and Veterans Affairs to identify eligible individuals who did not file a return. For those who did not receive the full amount of their stimulus check, the IRS provided a non-filer tool to enter their information and receive the remaining amount.
In conclusion, understanding who gets a stimulus check is essential for those seeking financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligibility is based on income thresholds, filing status, and other factors. As the government continues to provide economic support, staying informed about the latest stimulus check information is crucial for qualifying individuals and families.
