During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government sent stimulus checks to help individuals and families financially. Many people have already received their payments, but if you are still waiting, here’s a simple guide on how to track your stimulus check.
What Is a Stimulus Check?
A stimulus check is a cash payment from the U.S. government to its citizens to support the economy during tough times, like the COVID-19 pandemic. These payments are meant to help people spend more money on daily needs,
which helps businesses and strengthens the economy. During the pandemic, multiple rounds of checks were sent to help people deal with job losses, reduced wages, and financial struggles.
What Do You Need to Track Your Stimulus Check?
Before you start tracking your stimulus check, make sure you have the following information handy:
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Birth date
- Residential Address
- Five-digit ZIP code
If you filed a joint tax return, your spouse can also log in using their details, and you both will get the same update about the status of your stimulus payment.
How to Track Your Stimulus Check
Here’s how to easily track your stimulus check online:
- Visit the IRS Website: Go to the official IRS portal.
- Log In: Enter the username and password you used when filing your tax return.
- Provide Details: Enter your SSN and birth date.
- Check Status: After submitting your information, the status of your stimulus check will be shown on the screen.
Be careful of any fake emails or messages asking you to change your password. The IRS will never ask you to do this.
What Is the IRS “Get My Payment” Tool?
The “Get My Payment” tool on the IRS website allows you to:
- Track the status of your stimulus check
- Select whether you want to receive your payment by direct deposit or paper check
- Find out the expected delivery date of your payment
- Update your bank details if the IRS does not have them on file
Keep in mind that the IRS is no longer sending paper checks. All payments are now made through direct deposit.
How to Add Your Bank Details for Direct Deposit
To make sure your stimulus payment goes directly into your bank account, follow these steps:
- Log in to the IRS Portal: Use your existing credentials.
- Enter Bank Information: Provide your bank account type, number, and routing number.
- Submit Additional Information: You will need to enter your adjusted gross income and the amount you owe or are owed from your latest tax return.
Note: If your stimulus payment is already scheduled for delivery, you cannot update your bank details. To change your address or other personal details, you will need to visit your nearest IRS office and complete the necessary forms.
The stimulus checks are a crucial part of helping people during tough times like the pandemic. If you haven’t received yours yet, the IRS “Get My Payment” tool is a helpful resource to track your payment.
Make sure you have all your important documents ready, and follow the steps mentioned above to get updates on your payment. Stay safe and be aware of any fraudulent messages claiming to be from the IRS.
What if I can’t access the IRS “Get My Payment” portal?
Try clearing your browser cache or use a different browser. If you still face issues, you can contact the IRS directly.
What happens if my check was sent to the wrong address?
If your check was sent to the wrong address, visit the nearest IRS office to update your details.
Can I still receive a paper check instead of direct deposit?
No, the IRS has stopped sending paper checks. All payments are now done via direct deposit.
How do I know if my bank details are correct?
You can check and update your bank details through the IRS “Get My Payment” tool before your payment is scheduled.
What if I filed taxes jointly?
Both partners can log in to the IRS portal using their details to check the status of the payment.
