Colleagues,

Here's a quick update. Hopefully I have this right!

Keep an eye on www.IRS.gov because you never know what changes they will make next. They are adding helpful information. There are now scenarios describing which 17-24 year olds are eligible for their own checks. If you work with youth, it's worth reading through them. Basically, if you were claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return, you are NOT eligible for a check in your own name.

Non-filers with dependent children. Remember, SSI and VA benefit recipients with dependent children only have until 9:00 a.m. on May 5 to register their children. Otherwise they'll have to wait for next year's tax filing to receive the $500 per eligible child. It's already too late for SSA, SSDI, survivors, and Railroad Retirees to register their dependent children. They'll have to claim them on next year's taxes.

Here's the message from Jennifer Ammons, NW Justice Project - The deadline for people receiving SSI or VA benefits to report the existence of any dependent kids is approaching. Recipients of these benefits who have kids that qualify as dependents must go online to https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here to provide the kids' info by 9:00 a.m. our time on May 5, 2020, in order to get the additional $500 per child. Otherwise they won't receive the additional amount until next spring, when/if they file their tax return for 2020.

Everyone receiving SSA, SSDI, Survivors, SSI, VA benefits, Railroad Retirement should have the money either via direct deposit in their account or coming by paper check beginning this week with lowest incomes in the mail first.

If in the above categories, check status of payment with the Get My Payment button on www.irs.gov

If a non-filer, click the Non-Filer button on www.irs.gov but look at the information required first. Direct deposit requires a bank account and routing number; paper check requires an address.

I've sent out several suggested check cashing options in prior emails. If you need them repeated, please let me know.

Here's another source of support - from the Center for Independence in Lakewood: The Center for Independence would be more than happy to help those with disabilities who may need assistance navigating this stimulus payment. Along with one on one tech-assistance, we may be able to connect clients with assistive technology needed to use the online systems to complete the steps necessary to receive their stimulus check. Community members needing assistance can contact CFI's main phone number located below or contact my remote working number at 360-529-0941.

Mariah Boutté, BASW

Independent Living Coordinator

Pronouns: She/Her

Center For Independence

(253) 582-1253 x 107

I’ll continue working with Seattle CU about a telephone and online new account option and Harborstone CU about free/low fee check cashing.

I think the key now is for outreach/case managers/shelter staff - anyone doing any kind of outreach/support/intake making sure clients/guests are properly registered with the IRS and get their checks and are able to cash their paper checks as safely as possible.

Other suggestions always welcome and someday I'll figure out formatting- perhaps.

Take care everyone,

Maureen

MaureenHowardConsulting
maureenhowardconsulting@gmail.com

Tel: 253-756-8146 (LL)

Cell: 253-255-2200
3320 S. 8th Street
Tacoma, WA 98405