The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the lives of millions of Americans. To help mitigate the economic fallout, the federal government has provided stimulus checks to eligible individuals and families. The third stimulus check, formally known as the Economic Impact Payment, was part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and was issued in March 2021.
This article will explore the crucial aspects of the third stimulus check for individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. We'll provide answers to your frequently asked questions and shed light on key details about the payment, its eligibility criteria, and how it was distributed.
Eligibility for the Third Stimulus Check
The third stimulus check was designed to provide financial relief to Americans impacted by the pandemic. To be eligible, individuals had to meet specific criteria, including:
- U.S. Citizenship or Legal Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident.
- Valid Social Security Number: You need to have a valid Social Security number.
- No Qualifying Child: You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return.
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) Limits: Income limits varied depending on your filing status. For single filers, the AGI limit was $75,000, while for married couples filing jointly, the limit was $150,000.
Receiving Your Third Stimulus Check as an SSI or SSDI Recipient
If you received SSI or SSDI benefits in 2020, you were automatically eligible for the third stimulus check. The IRS used your information from your most recent tax return to calculate your payment.
Here's how it worked:
- Automatic Distribution: The IRS automatically distributed the stimulus checks to SSI and SSDI recipients via direct deposit or paper check.
- Direct Deposit Preference: If you receive your SSI or SSDI benefits by direct deposit, the IRS likely used the same bank account information for your stimulus check.
- Paper Check Delivery: If you receive your benefits by paper check, the IRS mailed your stimulus check to the address on file.
Key Point: The IRS prioritized sending out the stimulus checks to SSI and SSDI recipients. You didn't need to file a tax return to receive your payment.
Amount of the Third Stimulus Check
The third stimulus check amount was based on your filing status and income:
- Single Filers: $1,400
- Married Filing Jointly: $2,800
- Head of Household: $1,400
- Qualifying Dependents: $1,400 per dependent
Important Note: The stimulus check amount was phased out for individuals with higher adjusted gross incomes.
Third Stimulus Check Payment Timeline
The IRS began issuing the third stimulus checks in March 2021. Most individuals received their payments within a few weeks. However, some may have received their checks later, depending on various factors, such as the IRS's workload and the complexity of their tax situation.
How to Check the Status of Your Payment
If you received your stimulus check via direct deposit, you could track its status through the IRS's Get My Payment tool. This tool allowed you to enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and address to access information about your payment.
Tip: Keep an eye on your mail for any IRS correspondence regarding your stimulus check.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. I'm receiving SSI or SSDI benefits, but I didn't receive a third stimulus check. Why not?
There are several reasons why you might not have received the third stimulus check, even if you were eligible. These reasons could include:
- Incorrect Address on File: Ensure your mailing address with the IRS is correct. If it's not, you might not have received your check.
- Late Filing or No Filing: You might not have filed a tax return for 2020 or filed it late. While not required for SSI and SSDI recipients, filing a tax return allows the IRS to verify your information and ensure you receive the correct payment.
- Duplicate Payments: You may have received a duplicate payment due to errors in the IRS's system.
- Tax Lien or Debt: If you have a tax lien or other outstanding debt, the IRS might have withheld your payment.
- Identity Theft: If someone stole your identity and claimed your benefits, you might have been ineligible for the stimulus check.
2. How can I claim a missing third stimulus check?
If you believe you are eligible for the third stimulus check but didn't receive it, you can file an amended tax return (Form 1040-X). This form allows you to claim any missing payments.
3. Will I have to pay taxes on my third stimulus check?
The third stimulus check was considered a tax credit, not taxable income. This means you won't have to pay taxes on it.
4. I'm receiving SSI or SSDI benefits and was eligible for the third stimulus check. Will it affect my benefits?
The third stimulus check was designed as a one-time payment to help individuals and families during the pandemic. It shouldn't affect your SSI or SSDI benefits.
5. If I'm receiving SSI or SSDI benefits, am I eligible for future stimulus checks?
As of right now, there are no plans for additional stimulus checks. If future stimulus programs are enacted, the eligibility criteria may vary, and the IRS will provide information on how to receive the payments.
Conclusion
The third stimulus check provided financial relief to many Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic, including individuals receiving SSI and SSDI benefits. While the distribution process is complete, understanding the eligibility requirements, payment amounts, and how to resolve potential issues remains crucial for those who rely on these programs.
We encourage you to stay informed about future government initiatives and seek guidance from your local Social Security office or trusted financial advisor for any questions or concerns you may have.
FAQs
1. I received a stimulus check, but the amount seems incorrect. What should I do?
If you believe the amount of your stimulus check is incorrect, contact the IRS to inquire about the discrepancy. You may need to provide additional information to verify your eligibility and payment amount.
2. I'm a student and received a stimulus check but wasn't claimed as a dependent on my parents' tax return. Will I have to repay the money?
If you were eligible for the third stimulus check but were claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return, you might need to repay the payment. The IRS has a program that allows eligible individuals to avoid repayment if certain conditions are met.
3. I'm a non-resident alien and received SSI or SSDI benefits. Am I eligible for the third stimulus check?
Non-resident aliens generally are not eligible for stimulus checks. However, there may be exceptions depending on your specific residency status and income. Contact the IRS for further guidance.
4. I'm a member of the military and was deployed during the pandemic. Did I receive a stimulus check?
The IRS generally sent stimulus checks to military personnel even if they were deployed. However, if you believe you didn't receive a payment, contact the IRS or your military pay office for assistance.
5. What if I have questions about my stimulus check that aren't addressed here?
The IRS provides various resources to help you with your questions about stimulus checks. You can visit their website, call their customer service line, or schedule an appointment with a tax professional.