Up To $1,400: How To Claim Your Forgotten Stimulus Check From The IRS

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a trail of financial hardships in its wake, but one silver lining is the economic stimulus packages implemented by the US government. The first stimulus package, also known as the CARES Act, included a payment of up to $1,200 per individual, with an additional $500 for dependent children under 17. However, some individuals may have missed out on this payment due to various reasons, such as not meeting the eligibility criteria or not providing the necessary information. Fortunately, the IRS has made it possible for those who missed out on the initial payment to claim their forgotten stimulus check.

Understanding Your Eligibility

Before you start the process of claiming your forgotten stimulus check, it's essential to understand your eligibility. To qualify for the payment, you must have filed your 2019 tax return by October 15, 2020, and meet certain income and residency requirements. You must also have provided the necessary information, such as your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and had a valid bank account or debit card to receive the payment.

If you meet these requirements, you may be eligible for the payment. However, if you don't meet these requirements, you won't be able to claim the payment. It's also worth noting that the IRS has a deadline to process and distribute the payments, so it's essential to act quickly if you're eligible.

Gathering Required Documents

To claim your forgotten stimulus check, you'll need to gather certain documents, including:

• Your 2019 tax return
• Your Social Security number or ITIN
• Your bank account or debit card information
• Proof of identity, such as a driver's license or passport
• Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement

Make sure to have all of these documents ready before starting the process.

The IRS's New Policy

In January 2021, the IRS announced a new policy to help individuals claim their forgotten stimulus check. The policy allows individuals to claim their payment without having to file a tax return. Instead, you can use the IRS's "Get Your Refund" tool on the IRS website or call the IRS's phone number to get your payment.

However, there are some limitations to this policy. For example, you can only claim one payment per individual, and you must have provided the necessary information to the IRS. Additionally, if you've already filed a tax return, you may not be eligible for this policy.

How to Claim Your Payment

To claim your payment, follow these steps:

1. Go to the IRS website at irs.gov and click on the "Get Your Refund" tool.
2. Enter your Social Security number or ITIN and your bank account or debit card information.
3. Review your information and make any necessary corrections.
4. Click "Submit" to submit your request.

Alternatively, you can call the IRS's phone number at 1-800-829-1040 to get your payment. Be prepared to provide the necessary information, including your Social Security number or ITIN and your bank account or debit card information.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when claiming your forgotten stimulus check:

• Be patient: The IRS may take some time to process your request, so be patient and don't follow up too frequently.
• Verify your information: Make sure to verify your information before submitting your request to avoid any errors.
• Use a secure device: Use a secure device to access the IRS website and avoid any security risks.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully claim your forgotten stimulus check and receive the payment you're due. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get the financial relief you need during these challenging times.

What If You Still Can't Get Your Payment?

If you're having trouble claiming your payment, don't worry. The IRS has a number of resources available to help you. Here are some options to consider:

• Call the IRS's phone number at 1-800-829-1040 to speak with a representative.
• Use the IRS's "Get Your Refund" tool on the IRS website to get your payment.
• Visit your local IRS office in person to get your payment.

If you're still having trouble, you can also contact the IRS's Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) for additional assistance. These centers are staffed by trained representatives who can help you with your issue.

Common Errors to Watch Out For

Here are some common errors to watch out for when claiming your payment:

• Invalid Social Security number or ITIN
• Incorrect bank account or debit card information
• Missing or incomplete information
• Duplicate payments

If you notice any of these errors, you'll need to correct them before you can claim your payment.

Conclusion

Claiming your forgotten stimulus check is a relatively straightforward process, but it's essential to be patient and follow the correct procedures to avoid any errors. By gathering the necessary documents, using the IRS's "Get Your Refund" tool, and following the tips and resources provided, you can successfully claim your payment and receive the financial relief you need.

Remember, the IRS is committed to helping you get your payment, and they have a number of resources available to assist you. Don't be afraid to reach out if you need help along the way.