The next stimulus package may include a reduction in federal unemployment benefits. Currently, federal unemployment benefits run through July 31.

The Cares Act, passed earlier this spring, provided $600 per week to the unemployed from the federal government in addition to state unemployment benefits. According to the Washington Post, some Republicans are considering extending unemployment benefits from the federal government in the next stimulus bill, which would reduce the amount paid from $200 to $400 per week.

Many Americans are feeling threatened by the next stimulus package as federal and state unemployment benefits are ending.

The Careers Act also extended state programs to allow for an additional 13 or 20 weeks of relief, but some states are requiring recipients to reapply, a process that could take some time.

Hopefully, the second round of benefits will be provided as soon as possible. The Senate returns from recess today (July 20) to begin consideration of the next stimulus package.

No firm proposals have been offered so far, but the bill could include ongoing reductions in federal unemployment benefits and additional direct cash payments in the form of stimulus checks.

However, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, has suggested that the stimulus check2 be limited to workers earning less than $40,000 a year. Some senators have expressed hesitation about additional direct payments.

If senators do not pass the bill by August 10, when the next recess begins, Americans will have to wait until at least September to receive the additional benefits. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has urged Congress to approve Stimulus Check 2 by the end of July, and House Democrats are pressuring Senators to "get to work" on the next bailout.

If you have not yet received your direct payments paid under the Careers Act but believe you are eligible, use the IRS Get My Payment app to check your status or call the IRS stimulus phone number to speak with a representative.