The coronavirus has affected people worldwide, and this widespread virus has caused the rates of unemployment in the United States to skyrocket. Due to this, the U.S. government passed the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act in 2020 and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021. These are both meant to provide direct economic assistance for Americans who have been negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are some limitations on who will receive stimulus money based on income level. So what do you need to know about SSDI, SSI, and stimulus checks? 

Who Is Eligible For The COVID-19 Stimulus Check?

The 2nd stimulus check was provided in the amounts of $600 per individual, $1,200 per couple, and $600 for children. Individuals with an adjusted gross income (AGI) that falls at or below $75,000, $112,500 for heads of household, or couples who earn below $150,000 are eligible to receive the COVID-19 relief funds. Those who earn above these amounts may still receive a stimulus check, but the amounts will be reduced. 

Will SSDI or SSI Affect My Stimulus Check?

Many people are wondering, “Am I eligible for the COVID-19 stimulus check if I also receive SSDI or SSI benefits?” If you participate in the SSDI or SSI programs, the IRS claims you should automatically be eligible to receive the stimulus money. If you received money on the first or second round of payments, you should qualify for future stimulus payments. However, if you were claimed as a dependant on someone else’s tax return, that could affect your eligibility. 

Will COVID-19 Stimulus Money Affect My Disability Benefits Eligibility?

The COVID-19 stimulus check will not count as income for SSI eligibility purposes, and there is no need to report it to the Social Security Administration as income. The money is also not taxable, so it also does not count as a resource as long as you spend the full amount within 12 months of receiving it. For those receiving SSDI benefits, the stimulus check should not affect eligibility. 

What If My Income Is Lower Than When I Filed My Last Tax Return?

If you had decreased income in 2020 due to the loss of a job and/or starting disability benefits, there is a chance you may not receive the next stimulus check. However, if you filed a 2019 tax return that is above the $75,000 or $150,000 threshold, but you are under that threshold upon filing your 2020 taxes, you could get your stimulus payment in the form of a rebate with a later tax return. This is referred to as a Recovery Rebate Credit

Beware of Stimulus Check Scams

Please be aware that the IRS will not contact you for personal financial information. Many scams surround the COVID-19 relief money and people have received phone calls from someone claiming to be from the Treasury Department or the IRS. The IRS will securely mail you a letter to your last known address approximately 15 days after your money was deposited into your account or mailed as a paper check. This letter will inform you of how the payment was made, and if you did not receive your payment, you can request a replacement check from the IRS. You can also check the status of your payment through the IRS website

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one needs legal advice about SSI, SSDI, and stimulus checks for COVID-19 relief, please reach out to the Law Offices of Karen Kraus Bill today. Our team of experienced attorneys is available to help you get the money you deserve.