SSI recipients can claim missed Economic Impact Payments through the Recovery Rebate Credit by filing their tax returns before specific deadlines.[1]
The IRS distributed the stimulus payments via direct deposit, paper checks, and EIP Cards to ensure rapid and secure delivery to eligible recipients.[2]
Free tax preparation assistance is available for those needing help filing tax returns to claim stimulus payments or other tax-related benefits.
Receiving a Recovery Rebate Credit does not affect eligibility for other federal benefits like SSI, SNAP, TANF, or WIC.
Understanding the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIP3) is crucial for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and other eligible individuals.
This guide provides essential information on SSI getting stimulus check , eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and distribution methods.
Eligibility for the EIP3 primarily focuses on U.S. citizenship or resident status, a valid Social Security number, and income thresholds. The American Rescue Plan Act, enacted on March 11, 2021, set the stage for these payments​​.
Individuals: Full payment for Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) up to $75,000.
Head Of Household: Full payment for AGI up to $112,500.
Married Couples Filing Jointly: Full payment for AGI up to $150,000​​.
Non-Filers: Those who didn't file 2019 or 2020 tax returns but meet eligibility criteria can still receive payments by filing a 2020 tax return​​.
Married Couples With One SSN: Couples where only one spouse has a valid SSN are still eligible for payments​​.
Beneficiaries Of Federal Programs: SSI, Social Security, Railroad Retirement Board, and Veterans Affairs beneficiaries generally don't need to take action to receive payments​​.
Each eligible individual can receive up to $1,400, while married couples filing jointly can receive up to $2,800 plus an additional $1,400 for each qualifying dependent. Payments phase out above certain AGI levels, with no payment for singles earning over $80,000, head of household over $120,000, and married couples filing jointly over $160,000​​.
Recovery Rebate Credit For Missed Payments: SSI recipients who missed the 2020 and 2021 Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) can still claim these funds by filing a tax return. The deadlines for claiming the 2020 and 2021 Recovery Rebate Credits are May 17, 2024, and April 15, 2025, respectively.[1] This measure is especially relevant for those who did not receive automatic stimulus payments due to not filing a tax return in these years​​.
“Unlike the first two Economic Impact Payments, the third round included payments for all qualifying dependents, not just children under 17.”
To claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for either 2020 or 2021, individuals must have been a U.S. citizen or resident alien in the respective year, not been a dependent of another taxpayer, and possessed a Social Security number valid for employment in the United States. This eligibility applies to SSI recipients as well, ensuring they can claim missed stimulus payments through this credit​​.
The IRS has employed several methods to distribute stimulus payments, including direct deposits, paper checks, and debit cards (EIP Cards).[2] For SSI recipients who are regular taxpayers, the IRS uses their tax return information to determine the most efficient delivery method. However, for those who don't usually file tax returns, the IRS works with relevant federal agencies like the Social Security Administration to identify and deliver payments to beneficiaries. The aim has been to expedite the delivery of payments and ensure the secure transfer of funds​​.
The IRS has increased the use of direct deposit and prepaid debit cards to accelerate the delivery of stimulus payments. This approach has seen more Americans receiving electronic payments more quickly than through traditional methods like mailing checks. The shift to more electronic payments has been a critical strategy in providing rapid relief to individuals affected by the pandemic, including SSI recipients​​.
For those receiving payments by mail, the Treasury has issued EIP Cards, which are prepaid debit cards. These cards can be used for various transactions like purchases, cash withdrawals, and fund transfers. Importantly, these EIP Cards offer consumer protections against fraud, loss, and other errors. They are also designed to be a secure and convenient method for recipients to access their stimulus payments. The IRS does not determine who receives a prepaid debit card, but the Bureau of the Fiscal Service sponsors these cards, issued by MetaBank, N.A.​​
The IRS also provides free tax preparation assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs. This service can be particularly beneficial for SSI recipients who may need help filing tax returns to claim Recovery Rebate Credits or other tax-related benefits​.
We've answered some of the most common questions about SSI getting stimulus check to help you gain a more clear understanding of this.
Yes, SSI recipients who missed earlier stimulus payments can claim them by filing a tax return and applying for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
The deadlines are May 17, 2024, for the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit and April 15, 2025, for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.
The IRS uses direct deposits, paper checks, and EIP Cards (prepaid debit cards) to distribute the payments, based on the recipient's information on file.
Carefully watch your mail for either a paper check or an EIP Card. Follow the instructions included with the EIP Card for activation and use.
Yes, the IRS provides free tax preparation help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs.
No, receiving a Recovery Rebate Credit does not count as income and does not affect eligibility for federal benefits like SSI, SNAP, TANF, or WIC.
For SSI recipients, understanding the nuances of Economic Impact Payments is key to accessing financial support efficiently. Whether it's claiming missed payments through Recovery Rebate Credits, navigating the distribution methods, or utilizing available resources like free tax preparation services, staying informed is crucial. This guide serves as a resource to help SSI recipients confidently manage their stimulus payments and navigate the complexities of the tax system.
Our detailed guide discusses whether SSI will get a fourth stimulus check in California. Learn more by visiting Benefits Aid and exploring our comprehensive resources.