The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued multiple rounds of stimulus checks to eligible individuals and families as part of the government’s response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These checks have provided much-needed financial assistance to millions of Americans. However, some individuals may have encountered issues receiving their checks or may have lost or misplaced them. This article explores the circumstances under which the IRS can reissue stimulus checks and provides guidance on the process involved.
Eligibility for Stimulus Check Reissue
The IRS may reissue stimulus checks in the following situations:
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Non-Receipt: If an eligible individual did not receive their stimulus check, they can request a reissue.
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Lost or Stolen Check: If a stimulus check was lost or stolen before being cashed, the IRS can issue a replacement check.
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Expired Check: Stimulus checks have an expiration date, typically within 12 months of issuance. If an individual has an expired check, they can request a reissue.
Procedure for Requesting a Reissue
To request a reissue of a stimulus check, individuals should follow these steps:
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Contact the IRS: Call the IRS at 800-829-0115 to report the missing, lost, stolen, or expired check.
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Provide Personal Information: The IRS will ask for personal information to verify the individual’s identity, such as their Social Security number, address, and date of birth.
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Explain the Situation: Clearly state the reason for requesting the reissue, whether it’s non-receipt, loss, theft, or expiration.
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Follow IRS Instructions: The IRS representative will provide instructions on the next steps, which may include submitting a Form 3911, Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund.
Timeframe for Reissue
The IRS typically processes reissue requests within 30 days. However, during peak periods, such as tax season, processing times may be longer.
Additional Considerations
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Address Changes: If an individual has changed their address since filing their tax return, they should update their address with the IRS before requesting a reissue.
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Joint Filers: If a stimulus check was filed jointly, both spouses must contact the IRS to request a reissue.
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Deceased Individuals: If an eligible individual has passed away, their executor or administrator should contact the IRS to request a reissue.
The IRS can reissue stimulus checks in certain circumstances, such as non-receipt, loss, theft, or expiration. By following the outlined procedure and providing the necessary information, individuals can request a reissue of their stimulus check and receive the financial assistance they are entitled to.