There’s a lot of uncertainty during this time, and our Chicago disability lawyers understand the fear that may begin to creep in about finances, especially for those who currently receive disability benefits from the government. In response to the economic decline, the government is in the process of issuing stimulus checks up to $1,200 for each person who qualifies.
New Guidelines on Getting Your Stimulus Payment
We received new information from NOSSCR and a new memo from Social Security on the Stimulus payments:
- People receiving SSI and who did not file a 2018 or 2019 tax returns should go to the IRS website for “non-Filers: Enter Payment Info page at: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments and provide information on yourself and any children you have under age 17;
- People getting SS retirement, survivors or disability insurance benefits, and who did not file a tax return for 2018 or 2019, AND who have qualifying children under age 17 should also file on that website. This is especially important to make sure that your children get their benefits;
- Any new beneficiaries since January 1, 2020 of either Social Security or SSI benefits should go to that website and file;
- IF you are receiving SS retirement, survivors or SSDI, and do not have qualifying children under 17, you do not have to do anything – you will get your payment from the IRS as long as you received anSSA-1099 for 2019.
In his “Guidance”, Commissioner Saul indicated that he is still working with the IRS to make automatic payments to SSI recipients without qualifying children under 17. He also reiterated that these payments will not be considered income for SSI purposes and will not be considered a resource for 12 months.
Contact Us to Learn More
As we continue to learn more about the progression of COVID-19 and how it may impact those who are receiving disability benefits, we will be sure to keep you updated! As always, if you have more questions during this unprecedented time, we are only a phone call away.