Saturday January 16, 2021
Washington News

Non-Filers Can Still Claim 2020 Stimulus Payments
Non-filers are urged to register by October 15, 2020, to receive a stimulus payment. Individuals may receive up to $1,200, and married couples could qualify up to $2,400. Those persons with qualifying children under age 17 may receive an additional $500 for each child.
The IRS letters will be mailed to those who have not filed a 2018 or 2019 federal income tax return. Most of these Americans have moderate or modest incomes and are not required to file a tax return.
IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig stated, "The IRS has made an unprecedented outreach effort to make sure people are aware of their potential eligibility for an Economic Impact Payment this year. Millions who don't normally file a tax return have already registered and received a payment. We are taking this extra step to help Americans who may not know they could be eligible for this payment or don't know how to register for one. People who aren't required to file a tax return can quickly register on IRS.gov and still get their money this year."
The letters will be written in English and Spanish. They will explain how recipients can claim an Economic Impact Payment. Individuals should register by October 15 using the Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info Here tool on IRS.gov.
The letter notes that receiving a letter does not equate to eligibility. Each person must determine if he or she qualifies for an Economic Impact Payment. The basic factors that may meet the qualifications are if the individual is a U.S. citizen or resident alien, has a Social Security number and not be a dependent on another person's income tax return.
If you file by October 15, you could receive an Economic Impact Payment this year. Individuals also may wait until filing a 2020 federal income tax return and claim a credit at that time.
Approximately 160 million Americans have already received a payment. Commissioner Rettig continued, "Time is running out this year for the IRS to issue payments. People who normally don't file a tax return shouldn't wait to see if they receive one of these letters. They can review the guidelines and register now if they're eligible."
After registering on IRS.gov, individuals may track their payment using the Get My Payment tool.
The Service warns taxpayers to be on the lookout for Economic Impact Payment scams. The IRS will not send unsolicited email communications or ask a taxpayer to share personal or financial information. Individuals should go to IRS.gov for further information on the Economic Impact Payments.
Previous Articles
Protect Yourself with a Hurricane or Natural Disaster Plan
Strong Passwords Protect Your Data