The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented economic challenges, prompting the government to issue stimulus checks to provide financial relief to American citizens. However, individuals who have not filed taxes in several years may be wondering if they are eligible to receive these payments. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and steps to claim your stimulus check if you are in this situation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a stimulus check, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Meet the income requirements (generally, below $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for married couples)
Filing Requirements
If you have not filed taxes in several years, you will need to file a tax return for the most recent year for which you are eligible to claim a refund. This is typically the past three years, including the current year.
Filing Options
You have several options for filing your taxes:
- Online: Use a tax preparation software or the IRS Free File program to file your taxes electronically.
- Mail: Download the necessary tax forms from the IRS website and mail them to the IRS.
- In-person: Visit a local IRS office or Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site for assistance with filing your taxes.
Claiming Your Stimulus Check
Once you have filed your tax return, you can claim your stimulus check by following these steps:
- Check the IRS website: Visit the IRS website to determine if you are eligible for a stimulus check and the amount you are entitled to receive.
- File a tax return: If you have not already done so, file a tax return for the most recent year for which you are eligible to claim a refund.
- Provide direct deposit information: When filing your tax return, provide your bank account information so that the IRS can directly deposit your stimulus check.
- Wait for payment: The IRS will begin issuing stimulus checks shortly after you file your tax return. The timing of your payment will depend on the method you choose to file your taxes and whether you provide direct deposit information.
Additional Considerations
- Income Limits: The amount of your stimulus check will be reduced if your income exceeds certain limits.
- Non-filers: Individuals who do not normally file taxes may be eligible for a stimulus check if they meet certain criteria.
- Paper Checks: If you do not provide direct deposit information, the IRS will mail you a paper check.
- Delays: There may be delays in receiving your stimulus check due to high demand and processing times.
Even if you have not filed taxes in several years, you may still be eligible to receive a stimulus check. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can file your tax return and claim your payment. Remember to check the IRS website for the latest updates and information on stimulus check eligibility and distribution.
Haven’t Filed Taxes in Years? Here’s What To Do! [Step by Step]
FAQ
Can you still get stimulus check if you didn’t file taxes?
Is it too late to file for stimulus check?
Is the IRS taking back stimulus money?
How do I get my stimulus check if I never got it?
Can I get a stimulus check if I didn’t file a tax return?
If you’re eligible for a stimulus check ( not everyone will get one ), the IRS will grab the information it needs to process your payment from your 2018 or 2019 tax return. But what if you didn’t file a tax return for those two years? After all, not everyone is required to file a return.
How does the IRS calculate stimulus payments?
The IRS uses your tax returns to calculate, and in some cases process, your stimulus payment. What if I’m a nonfiler and don’t usually file tax returns? According to the IRS, tax nonfilers also need to file Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Will the IRS use my banking information for my stimulus payment?
There is no guarantee, however, that the IRS will receive your banking information in time to use it for your payment. The IRS uses your tax returns to calculate, and in some cases process, your stimulus payment. What if I’m a nonfiler and don’t usually file tax returns?
Can I claim a stimulus check if I didn’t receive it?
Submitting a 2020 return will make it possible to claim a stimulus payment because the money was an advance on a tax credit. By filing a return and showing you were eligible for the credit but didn’t receive it, you can claim the stimulus funds you’re due. I never got my second stimulus check, even though it says it was mail.