What’s the deadline to claim my US Covid Stimulus check?
Published on January 05, 2024
by Clark Stott
Clark Stott has been with Expat Tax Online since 2015. Being a dual national based in the UK, Clark has unique experience helping US citizens (and Accidental Americans) become tax compliant via the Streamlined Tax Amnesty program. Clark likes to help Americans in the UK keep their tax situations as simple as possible to avoid harsh IRS treatment.
Table of Contents
Also known as Stimulus payments, Economic Recovery Payment “EIP” or Recovery Rebate.
To claim the first and second stimulus payments, include them in your 2020 US federal tax return, due by May 17, 2024. For the third payment, claim it on your 2021 tax return, which should be filed by April 18, 2025.
The first payment was $1,200 for adults and $500 for children.
The second payment was $600 for adults and $600 for children.
The third payment was $1,400 for adults and $1,400 for children.
Are American expatriates qualified for stimulus checks?
It depends. Your eligibility for a stimulus check primarily hinges on your adjusted gross income (AGI) and your tax filing status. Individuals with an AGI under $75,000 and couples filing jointly with an AGI below $150,000 usually qualify for the full amount. If your income surpasses these limits, the amount of the stimulus check gradually decreases.
Other factors also play a role in determining your eligibility. Having a Social Security number is crucial, as is not being claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return. Most eligible recipients have already received their Economic Impact Payments. If you haven’t filed your 2020 or 2021 tax returns, you can still claim any missed payments.
How do overseas US expats receive their stimulus checks?
If you’re residing outside the US, the IRS typically uses direct deposit information from your most recent tax return to send your stimulus payment. If direct deposit isn’t an option, a paper check will be mailed to the latest address on file.
The amount you receive depends on various factors, including your income and number of dependents. As of March 2023, the IRS has issued all three rounds of Economic Impact Payments. If you didn’t receive the full amount for the third payment, you might qualify for a 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, which can be claimed on your 2021 federal tax return.
Is filing a US tax return required to get stimulus payments?
Yes, filing a tax return is crucial for stimulus payment eligibility. The IRS uses your tax return information to determine if you qualify for the payments. Not filing a return for the previous year could mean missing out on these funds.
For those with low income who typically don’t file a tax return, the IRS’s Non-Filers tool offers a way to claim stimulus payments. Remember to adhere to the IRS’s deadlines for claiming any unclaimed payments.
What if I’m way behind on my U.S. tax returns?
There is a special IRS program to help you catch up on your U.S. taxes safely, without fines and penalties
STREAMLINED AMNESTY
It’s for American citizens that didn’t know they had to file U.S. tax returns each year, and have therefore fallen behind. Some more than 30 years! With the IRS Streamlined Procedure, say goodbye to overdue tax returns, late fees, and penalties. If you have children, we can backdate your Child Tax Credit Refund for 3 years.
Get a quote here.
What actions should expatriates take if they’re behind on tax filings?
If you’re an expatriate who has fallen behind on tax filings, the first step is to promptly catch up on any overdue returns. The IRS uses your tax return information to determine your eligibility for benefits like stimulus checks. Failing to file for the previous year could mean missing out on these financial opportunities.
Consider filing an amended return if you need to claim stimulus payments or if there have been changes in your financial situation that could impact your eligibility. This can be particularly useful for adjusting to any changes in income or family status.
How can expatriates update their overseas address with the IRS?
For expatriates, ensuring the IRS has your correct international address is key to receiving stimulus payments smoothly. Here’s what you can do:
- Update your address with the IRS to ensure they have your current overseas location. The IRS sends payments to the latest address on file.
- Pay attention to the format of your international address. Incorrect or unclear address details can lead to delays or non-delivery of your stimulus check.
For more intricate tax matters, seeking advice from a tax professional can be very beneficial. They can provide expert guidance and help you navigate the complexities of receiving financial benefits like stimulus checks while living abroad.
What are some special considerations for expatriates regarding stimulus checks?
Expatriates might face unique situations when it comes to securing stimulus checks:
- If you don’t have a permanent overseas address, the IRS will use the most recent address they have, which could be a US P.O. Box or a relative’s address. It’s important to keep your address information updated with the IRS to avoid any issues.
- For US citizens born abroad, eligibility for stimulus payments is generally the same as for those born in the US, as long as they have a Social Security number and meet the income requirements. Being born outside the US does not automatically disqualify you from receiving stimulus payments.
What should I do if I missed my initial stimulus payments?
If you didn’t receive the first or second stimulus payments, there are steps you can take to rectify this. One effective solution is to claim these missed payments through your tax return. The IRS allows you to request a Recovery Rebate Credit for the year the payment was due.
Alternatively, you can use the Economic Impact Payment tracing process. This method helps track down a payment that was sent but never received. To start this process, contact the IRS and follow their specific tracing guidelines.
How do I claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for unreceived stimulus payments?
If your stimulus payments haven’t arrived, the IRS provides a way to claim them through the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC). When filing your federal tax return, calculate the RRC to inform the IRS of your eligibility and the amount you’re owed.
For documentation, you’ll need to complete Form 1040 or 1040-SR, which includes a designated line for the RRC. This process, while straightforward, is crucial for obtaining any stimulus payments you’ve missed.
What do I do if my stimulus payment amount is incorrect?
If your stimulus payment is less than expected, your first step is to verify the amounts of your Economic Impact Payments. The IRS offers an online portal for checking the totals of your first, second, and third payments, helping you identify any discrepancies.
To correct an error in the payment amount, use the Recovery Rebate Credit on your federal tax return. Ensure accuracy by referencing the total amount of the third payment from your IRS account or Letter 6475 to avoid errors and speed up the process.
Do non-resident aliens and green card holders have eligibility for stimulus payments?
Non-resident aliens and green card holders have specific eligibility criteria for stimulus checks. Green card holders generally qualify due to their tax resident status, while non-resident aliens are usually not eligible.
What other things should I know about?
Expatriates with dependents should also consider the Child Tax Credit. This credit is typically available to expatriates and can be claimed alongside stimulus payments. It provides additional financial support, especially for those with dependents.
The maximum claims for eligible dependents are:
- First Stimulus Payment: $500 per dependent
- Second Stimulus Payment: $600 per dependent
- Third Stimulus Payment: $1,400 per dependent
For complex tax situations, seeking advice from a tax professional is advisable. They can provide tailored guidance, ensuring you take full advantage of the benefits available to you.
The information provided herein is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we aim to provide helpful and accurate information, we make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained here or linked to from this material.
Always get professional advice from a US international tax specialist.
Spread the word. Please share… 👉
