Understanding IRS Non-Filers and the Stimulus Checks
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has been at the forefront of distributing economic impact payments, also known as stimulus checks, to eligible individuals and families. However, some people who were entitled to these payments may have missed out due to not filing tax returns. This article aims to clarify the situation for non-filers and provide guidance on how to claim their stimulus checks.
Who are IRS Non-Filers?
IRS non-filers are individuals who are required to file a tax return but have not done so. This could be due to various reasons, such as not meeting the income threshold, not having enough tax withheld from their paychecks, or simply forgetting to file. For the purpose of stimulus checks, non-filers include those who did not file a tax return for 2018 or 2019, the tax years used to determine eligibility for the first two rounds of payments.
Why Did Some Non-Filers Not Receive Stimulus Checks?
To receive a stimulus check, the IRS needed to have information about the non-filer's income and eligibility. For those who did not file tax returns, the IRS used information from other federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), to send payments. However, not everyone's information was available, leading to some non-filers being overlooked.
How Can Non-Filers Claim Their Stimulus Checks?
Non-filers who believe they are owed a stimulus check can claim it through the Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info Here tool on the IRS website. This tool is available in English and Spanish. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info Here tool.
- Enter your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and your mailing address.
- Enter your bank account information to receive your payment via direct deposit. This is optional, but it's the fastest way to receive your payment.
- Enter information about any qualifying children to claim the additional $500 payment per child.
- Review your information and submit.
If you're not required to file a tax return, you can still use the tool to provide the IRS with the information it needs to calculate and issue your stimulus payment.
What If I'm a Non-Filer but I've Since Filed a Tax Return?
If you've since filed a tax return for 2019 or 2020, the IRS will use the information from your return to determine your eligibility and issue your stimulus payment. You do not need to use the Non-Filers tool. However, if you've since become eligible for a stimulus payment due to the birth or adoption of a child, you can use the tool to claim the additional $500 payment per child.
What If I'm a Non-Filer and I'm Not Sure If I'm Eligible?
To determine your eligibility for a stimulus check, you can use the Get My Payment tool on the IRS website. This tool will also tell you if the IRS has processed your stimulus payment and if it was sent via direct deposit or mail.
What If I'm a Non-Filer and I've Already Filed a 2020 Tax Return?
If you've already filed your 2020 tax return, the IRS will use the information from your return to determine your eligibility for any remaining stimulus payments. You do not need to use the Non-Filers tool. However, if you've since become eligible for a stimulus payment due to the birth or adoption of a child, you can claim the additional $500 payment per child on your 2020 tax return.
