Where Is My Stimulus Check?

Millions of Americans received their Economic Impact Payment this week through direct deposit into their bank accounts.  In total, 80 million people were estimated to receive their funds from the IRS during the week of April 13.  But millions more have not yet received any money.  If you have not yet received your money, don’t panic!  According to Money magazine, there may be many reasons such as:

You might not be eligible.  Details of eligibility can be found on the IRS Economic Impact Payment Information Center.  But, in general, you must meet the following IRS guidelines:

US citizen, permanent resident or qualifying resident alien.

Cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax returns.

Have a valid social security number, or a spouse that is a member of the Armed Forces.

Have an adjusted gross income that meets the requirements.

You may not have filed taxes for 2018 and 2019.

If this is the case, you should file your taxes immediately. 

Your 2019 tax return is still being processed. 

The IRS might lack or have incorrect bank information to process your direct deposit. 

If this is the case, your check will come in the mail.  These checks have not yet been mailed and the process could take several weeks or even months, unless you provide the IRS with updated instructions. 

The easiest way to track your stimulus payment is through an IRS app called Get My Payment.  In addition to standard personal information such as your address, birthdate, and social security number, be prepared to have your 2018 and 2019 tax returns on hand in order to provide detailed information.  This app will provide you with information on:

Your payment status.

Your payment type – whether the funds will be coming through direct deposit or by check.

Whether additional information, such as bank account details, are required in order to have your payment issued electronically.  If so, you can enter this information directly into the app.

Beware of IRS impersonators.  Many scams related to the IRS have been reported. The IRS will never call, text or email you to provide or verify personal information.  If you are contacted by someone claiming to be from the IRS, contact the IRS directly to determine if the individual is an IRS employee or impersonator.