Stimulus Check 3: Why Your$1,400 Might Be Held

Stimulus Check 3: Why Your$1,400 Might Be Held

Checks from the Biden administration's $1.9 trillion stimulus package passed by the House of Representatives last week have already begun to be deposited into bank accounts.

But because of the government's rush to pay, some Americans may experience delays or receive the wrong amount.

Known as the American Rescue Plan Act, the bill was signed into law on Thursday afternoon (March 11), and the IRS began transferring accounts the next day.

Recipients' accounts have been credited with their outstanding payments since Saturday, but banks report that it may be several days before the deposits are verified and cash can be withdrawn.

For example, Wells Fargo and Chase Bank customers can expect to have access to their funds by Wednesday (March 17), according to both companies' Twitter feeds.

There are several other reasons why we may not see Stimulus Check 3 anytime soon.

They have not filed their tax returns for 2019 and have not yet filed for 2020. The Treasury Department relies on information from tax returns to determine eligibility for stimulus checks. Under the previous relief, those who had not filed a tax return could enter their information separately in order to receive a check. Therefore, if the IRS does not yet have your information, the only way to receive the amount you are owed is to file a 2020 return.

You have a new address or bank account. If your account number or address has changed since your last time, your account transfers or paper checks may be misdirected. Unfortunately, the IRS must reissue the payment by mail.

You filed a paper return instead of an electronic return; the IRS is still processing paper returns from 2019 and this delay is expected to continue with 2020 returns.

Deposits were sent to the wrong account. Technical problems with third-party tax filing software can cause some deposits to be sent to the wrong account. Again, you will need to wait for the check to be reissued.

The system is set up to receive payments by check or debit card. Some payments are made by mail and take longer to arrive.

Also, even if you receive your stimulus check early, it could be the wrong amount; if you have a child born in 2020 but have not yet filed your 2020 tax return, your check will not account for your new dependents.

Similarly, if you had less income last year than you did in 2019 but have not filed a 2020 return, you may receive less than you are eligible to receive, or not at all. However, once you complete your 2020 return, the IRS will send you a check.

This direct payment will total $1,400 per person for single taxpayers filing up to $75,000 of income and married couples filing jointly up to $150,000 of income. Dependents are also eligible for the full benefit, so a family of four can expect to receive up to $5,600.

For individuals earning between $75,000 and $80,000 ($150,000 to $160,000 for a couple), checks would be prorated. Those earning more than $80,000 and $160,000, respectively, do not qualify for the stimulus package.

Categories