The introduction of a new law by the US government in April 2020, the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security). Its purpose was to provide one-time benefits to qualified recipients through a stimulus package. Next came the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA).
The passing of these laws took place during former President Trump’s term in office. In response to COVID, Joe Biden introduced the ‘American Rescue Plan,’ the third act of economic relief. Among its benefits are stimulus checks, child tax credits, healthcare subsidies, support for small businesses, employee retention incentives, and unemployment benefits.
How many states offer stimulus payments?
Even though this was initially a federal responsibility, payment obligations eventually fell to the state governments. Despite this, only some states offer stimulus payments to their citizens. Those who do not provide direct compensation have invested in other worthwhile uses, including infrastructure degradation.
Three states offer direct payments in stimulus checks: California, Florida (only for teachers), and Georgia (education and healthcare). Maryland, New Mexico (application deadline passed), North Dakota (for students and K-12 schools), Vermont (for those moving to Vermont), and West Virginia.
Alabama, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, and Montana are unlikely to receive State stimulus payments. The same is true for Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wyoming.
The American rescue plan is continuing in the remaining states but without direct payments. These measures include the SNAP food program, ‘Back to Work’ initiatives, child tax credits, etc. For more information, you can check your state’s website.
Is There an Eligibility Criteria?
Generally, those who qualify for stimulus checks are the homeless, the poor, those living in rural areas, or those who filed taxes. People with over $80,000, heads of households earning over $120,000, and married couples who make over $160,000 do not qualify.
The initial stimulus check was released in April 2020, December 2020, and March 2021, the second. They are issuing the fourth check this November.
Californians received stimulus payments such as the $3.8 billion deal in February. Almost all of the $1,400 payments have been sent. Because of the global technology boom throughout the world, wealthy Californians have benefited dramatically during the Pandemic due to the state’s tax revenue. That is why California can afford the Golden State Stimulus Program.
How do I apply?
There is no requirement for Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, Railroad Retirement, and Veteran Affairs benefit recipients to apply for stimulus checks. All other eligible candidates should go to their state’s website and fill out the online application form. Depending on your category, you may need to submit additional paperwork.
When will I receive my Stimulus Checks?
The delay in payments might be due to not filing your income taxes for 2019 and 2020. Although it isn’t a legal requirement for you to file, the IRS recommends filing your income. Filing taxes will also give you access to other benefits, such as SNAP, unemployment, and plus-ups.
Make sure the IRS has the correct account information for your bank. If you moved recently, make sure the IRS has your current address. Once the IRS verifies that all the above records are correct, they will reissue the payment.
Here’s a secret if you want to increase your income?
Payments under the Plus-Up Program are for those who saw their annual earnings drop below a specific amount in 2020 compared to 2019. A baby or a disabled relative would be considered an additional dependent. If a college student is under your care, they are also regarded as dependent. You can check your eligibility on the state and IRS websites. The deadline for claiming Plus-Ups is December 31, 2021.