(UPDATE: Social Security recipients with dependent children 16 years old or younger will have to use the IRS's online tool by noon (Eastern) on April 22 to get an additional $500 per child in their stimulus check if they didn't file a 2018 or 2019 tax return. The story below has been updated with this new information.)
At one point, it was thought that eligible Social Security recipients who didn't file a tax return for 2018 or 2019 would have to use the IRS's "Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info Here" tool to get a stimulus check payment. However, after some internal back-and-forth, the IRS said that you will automatically receive a $1,200 stimulus check if you received Social Security retirement, disability, survivor, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in 2019. (Ditto for if you received Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits.) The IRS will use information from the Social Security Administration (or RRB) to generate a payment to you if you didn't file a tax return in 2018 or 2019. (Note that you are not eligible to receive a stimulus payment if you can be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return.)
However, Social Security recipients with children 16 years old or younger will have to use the "Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info Here" tool to get an extra $500 per child added to their $1,200 payment if they didn't file a 2018 or 2019 tax return. If that's you, use the online tool by noon Eastern time, Wednesday, April 22, to let the IRS know about your children before your payment is processed.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
Stock Market Today: Stocks Dragged Down by Strong DataInvestors weigh the prospect of no more rate cuts in the current cycle.
-
The Verizon Administrative Settlement Payment is a Reminder Class-Action Lawsuits Won't Make You RichPeople are receiving payouts from the Verizon administrative settlement and are surprised at how small they are. This provides a helpful financial lesson reminder.
-
The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): How Much Is It Worth?Tax Credits This tax break can help you offset $2,500 in qualifying expenses tied to your higher education. Here's what you need to know.
-
1099-K Reporting Change for the 2025 Tax SeasonTax Return An IRS 1099-K threshold change will impact millions of tax bills this filing season.
-
Does Your State Have a Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit?Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Over two dozen states, plus the District of Columbia offer tax credits or deductions for working families.
-
Should Rent Be Part of Your Retirement Plans?Retirement Taxes Retiree renters may qualify for potential tax savings. Are you considering a move?
-
What Is a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)?Tax Breaks A QCD can lower your tax bill while meeting your charitable giving goals in retirement. Here’s how.
-
New Law Delivers Tax Breaks to Natural Disaster Victims, But Is It Enough?Tax Relief The legislation provides critical tax relief to thousands of natural disaster victims across the country.
-
On the Naughty List: Holiday Tax Scams to Look Out ForTax Tips The IRS says scammers are on the prowl for your financial information. Know the signs so you don't fall victim.
-
Retirement Abroad? Three Countries Without Inheritance TaxRetirement Taxes These 2025 top-retiree-friendly countries have an added benefit: potential tax savings for you and your heirs.
