Are Veterans Getting a Stimulus Check This Month?
As the economy continues to struggle amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans are wondering if they will be receiving a stimulus check in the coming months. A group that has been actively awaiting a stimulus check are our nation’s veterans.
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Are Veterans Entitled to a Stimulus Check?
The answer is, in some cases, yes. The CARES Act, signed into law on March 27, 2020, provided for the issuance of stimulus checks, known as Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), to eligible individuals, including active-duty military personnel, retired military personnel, Disabled Veterans, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients who have a military pension or who are receiving Disability Compensation.
Note: The CARES Act is a federal law and not a VA-specific legislation.
When Can Veterans Expect to Receive a Stimulus Check?
Veterans can expect to receive a stimulus check in the second half of 2022, according to the Congressional Research Service. However, the exact date has not been officially announced, as it depends on when Congress passes the necessary funding bills.
Veterans Eligible for Stimulus Check
The following types of veterans are eligible to receive a stimulus check:
- Active-duty military: Those who are receiving basic pay and have gross income below $112,500 for single filers and $224,000 for joint filers
- Retired military personnel: Those receiving retirement pay and have gross income below $112,500 for single filers and $224,000 for joint filers
- Disabled Veterans: Those with Service-Connected Disability Ratings of 100%, Permanent and Total Disability Ratings, and receiving DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation))
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients: Those with military pension or receiving Disability Compensation)
- Surviving spouses of veterans who receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC))
The Stimulus Check Amounts
Stimulus check amounts depend on the individual’s taxable income and filing status:
| Filing Status | 2020 EIP | 2021 EIP |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,200 | $1,600 |
| Joint Filers | $2,400 | $3,200 |
| Head of Household | $1,400 | $1,900 |
Haven’t Received a Stimulus Check Yet? You Can Check Your Status Online
Those who have not received their stimulus check can check the status of their payment on the IRS website, where they can:
- Enter their 12-digit Payment Status Date (PSD).
- Use their payment tracking tool, such as the "Get Payment Status" tool on IRS.gov.
- Call the IRS Payment Contact Center at 800-829-1040 for assistance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the stimulus check program has a broader reach beyond the general public, affecting military personnel, retired, disabled, and surviving family members. While veterans have been awaiting the distribution of stimulus checks, Congress still needs to pass legislation for the necessary funding. The exact date for this legislation has not been determined, but it is essential for veterans to remain aware of updates and check their stimulus check status online. Remember to check the official government websites for official announcements and information regarding your eligibility and payment status.
Keep in mind that eligibility, payment amounts, and timeline may change as the laws evolve. Always stay tuned for updates and reliable information.
