Stimulus Check Breakdown

So far, three sets of Economic Impact Payments (also known as “stimulus checks”) have been issued to eligible recipients as part of the pandemic relief from the federal government. . Each set of payments has been slightly different and is outlined below for your Federal return.  

Round of PaymentLegislationProjected DateProjected PaymentTax Year  Max. Income to Receive Payment
1ST RoundCARES ActMarch 27, 2020$1,200 per adult
$500 per child
2020Single: $99,000
HOH: $136,500
Married: $198,000
2ND RoundConsolidated Appropriations Act December 27, 2020$600 per adult
$600 per child
2020Single: $87,000
HOH: $124,500
Married: $174,000
3RD RoundAmerican Rescue PlanMarch 11, 2021$1,400 per adult
$1,400 per child
2021Single: $80,000
HOH: $120,000
Married: $160,000

FAQ

Q. Why didn’t I receive my stimulus check?

A. If they didn’t receive their stimulus check, they can apply for it within the refund of the corresponding Tax Year (see above).

Q. What if I received more than I was supposed to receive?

A. There is no way for the client to “return” their check to the government. There is no need to do so.

Q. How much tax do I pay on the stimulus payments?

A. There is no tax due on the stimulus payments.

Q. Why didn’t my child/dependent didn’t receive their stimulus check?

A. If someone was claimed under another person they won’t receive a stimulus check. You can correct this by filing the dependent separately, even with zero income.

Q. Can I call the IRS to get my payment?

A. Calling the IRS will most likely not help or move the payment along faster due to the pandemic.

Q. Will there be another payment?

A. Our office doesn’t expect another payment unless there is a severe dip in the economy again.

Q. How were the payments sent?

A. Most payments were sent by direct deposit; however, some clients may have received checks due to varying reasons.

Q. Why did my friend get their check, but I didn’t?

A. There are so many varying reasons – however, it isn’t something to fret over as it varies case by case.

Q. What if my spouse/dependent has an ITIN?

A. Based on the legislation mentioned above, if your spouse or dependent had an ITIN, the taxpayer doesn’t qualify for the stimulus payment. The only way to resolve this is to file on your own, but this may not be beneficial based on your tax liability.