How to Claim Uncashed COVID-19 Stimulus Checks?

Question from F3TA, How to Claim Uncashed COVID-19 Stimulus Checks?

Answer from AI:

If you have not cashed your first two COVID-19 stimulus checks, also known as Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), there are steps you can take to claim that money. These payments were part of the federal government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021.

Steps to Claim Uncashed Stimulus Checks

1. Verify Your Payment Status
– Use the IRS’s “Get My Payment” tool to check the status of your payments. This tool can provide information on whether the checks were issued and if they were returned to the IRS.
– [Check Payment Status with IRS](https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment)

2. Request a Payment Trace
– If the checks were issued but not received or cashed, you may need to request a payment trace. This involves contacting the IRS to determine the status of your checks.
– You can initiate a payment trace by calling the IRS at 800-919-9835 or submitting Form 3911, “Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund.”

3. File a Recovery Rebate Credit
– If you did not receive your payments, you might be eligible to claim them as a Recovery Rebate Credit on your federal tax return for the year 2020 or 2021.
– Ensure you have not already claimed these payments on your tax return. If you have, you may need to file an amended return.

Important Considerations

– Time Limits: There may be time limits for claiming these payments, so it’s important to act promptly.
– Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the payments, which generally include having a valid Social Security number and not being claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.

When to Seek Legal Advice

If you encounter difficulties in claiming your payments or if there are discrepancies in your payment status, it may be beneficial to consult with a tax professional or attorney. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Additional Resources

– IRS Economic Impact Payments Information: [IRS Economic Impact Payments](https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments)
– Taxpayer Advocate Service: If you face challenges with the IRS, the Taxpayer Advocate Service may be able to assist you.

Remember, while this information provides a general guide, individual circumstances can vary, and professional advice may be necessary to address specific issues.