In case you missed the memo, President Trump recently signed a $2 trillion stimulus package into law that includes, among other provisions, a one-time payment worth up to $1,200 for Americans whose incomes fall below a certain threshold.
The IRS is expected to make some of those stimulus payments as early as the week of April 13, which is good news for those who really need the money. But unfortunately, a large number of Americans may have to wait up to 20 weeks to get their hands on that cash.
Exactly when you’ll receive the funds will depend on a few factors, including your income and whether you’re set up to get your money by direct deposit or by mail.
Here are answers to some common questions about the stimulus to help you determine when you’ll get your relief payment and tips for speeding up the process, according to tax experts.
How much can I receive?
The total amount of your stimulus check will be based on your adjusted gross income (AGI) from your 2019 federal tax filing or — if you haven’t filed this year — your 2018 filing.
- A single resident must have under a $75,000 income to receive the full amount of $1,200. The sum decreases as your AGI goes up. If your adjusted gross income reaches $99,000, you won’t be eligible for the stimulus.
- If you file as head of a household, you will get the full $1,200 payment if your AGI is $112,500 or less, with the amount decreasing till you reach $146,500.
- Married couples filing jointly without children with an adjusted gross income below $150,000 will get a $2,400 payment, decreasing to zero at $198,000.
- For each child age 16 or younger in the family, parents will get a payment of $500. Older children and other dependents may not be eligible for a payment.
Who will get their stimulus checks first?
Since the Treasury Department can only deliver a certain number of checks at a time, the department plans to disperse checks based on income, with lower-income Americans getting paid first. Direct deposits will be processed faster, but your income will still be factored in.
How do I get my stimulus check sooner?
If you want to get your economic impact payment quickly, the best advice is to file your 2019 tax and opt to have your refund direct deposited so the IRS has your account details.
Will I owe income tax on the stimulus money I receive?
No.
What if I am receiving Social Security Benefits?
The Treasury Department said that Social Security beneficiaries who are not typically required to file tax returns will not need to file an abbreviated tax return . Instead, the government will automatically deposit funds into their bank accounts.