The IRS said on Tuesday that all economic impact checks from the December stimulus bill have been sent to the Americans. According to the IRS, 147 million checks were sent to Americans, totaling $ 142 billion.
The IRS said it’s possible some incentive checks may still be in the mail, but the agency had to have all checks by Jan. 15.
Some of the checks were sent with a prepaid debit card last month.
The prepaid debit cards have been sent to some of those whose bank details are not registered with the IRS. The IRS told those expecting a paper check or debit card to watch their mail carefully.
If you did not receive an incentive check and believe you were eligible, you may be able to claim the “Recovery Rebate Credit” on a 2020 tax return. The IRS said eligibility will be based on 2020 tax information.
To claim a stimulus check through the Recovery Rebate Credit, filers must enter the amounts they received from the previous two stimulus checks.
For the December round of checks, Americans who made less than $ 75,000 in 2019 got an instant payment of $ 600 (couples who made less than $ 150,000 a year got $ 1,200). Household heads who made $ 124,500 in 2019 also received the full $ 600. Those who made $ 75,000 to $ 87,000 ($ 150,000 to $ 174,000 for couples) were given a prorated check. Those who made more than $ 87,000 ($ 174,000 for couples) did not receive a check.
For the round of checks sent in the spring, Americans who made less than $ 75,000 in 2018 or 2019 got an instant payment of $ 1,200 (couples who made less than $ 150,000 a year got $ 2,400). Household heads who made $ 124,500 in 2018 or 2019 also received the full $ 1,200. Those who made $ 75,000 to $ 87,000 ($ 150,000 to $ 174,000 for couples) were given a prorated check. Those who made more than $ 87,000 ($ 174,000 for couples) did not receive a check.
Click for more information on how to claim your stimulus control here.
Justin Boggs is a writer for the EW Scripps National Desk. Follow him on Twitter @jjboggs or on Facebook