The IRS is now releasing those much anticipated Economic Impact Payments, aka “Recovery Rebates”. But not everyone who was expecting one has received theirs. For some taxpayers, the amount may not be what was expected. Here are some reasons you may not have received your recovery rebate and ways to correct it.
Reasons why you may not have received your recovery rebate
The Treasury first looked for a filed 2019 return when they began making the payments. If a 2019 return was not filed in time to catch the payment dates, they used the family income from 2018. However, if neither 2019 or 2018 return was filed, then rebates were paid to recipients of social services. This includes recipeint of Social Security, SSI disability, survivors, Railroad Retirement and veterans’ benefits.
Someone who does not fit into one of those categories is generally deemed to be a non-filer. And will not receive a rebate until they either file a return or use the Non-Filer Tool on the IRS website.
Checking the status of your rebate
You can check on the status of your rebate using the “Get My Payment” feature at IRS webpage. It’s in the same place as the non-filer tool. That same page also provides the ability for some taxpayers to enter their direct deposit information. If the IRS doesn’t have your direct deposit information in their records, you can use the Get My Payment tool to submit that information. You must first properly verify your identity. Unfortunately, address changes cannot be made through Get My Payment.
Why your recovery rebate amount may be different than expected
Also realize there may have been life changes that may cause the rebate to be different. Changes like:
- births
- deaths
- under age 17 dependent children
- marriages
- separations
- divorces
- emancipations
- and income changes
All of these changes can cause rebate amounts to be different from what may have been expected, or even be incorrect.
On top of all that, the rebates are reduced (phased out) for higher income taxpayers. Rebates are based on your reported adjusted gross income on your 2019 return. Or 2018 return, if you haven’t yet filed for 2019. You may only qualify for a reduced rebate or no rebate at all.
The IRS provides an extensive Q&A related to recovery rebate issues and situations that may answer any questions.
If you have any other questions about your rebate, please give this office a call at (360) 778-2901.
The IRS Provides Online Tool for Stimulus Payments (or Recovery Rebates)
