In recent weeks, there has been a lot of talk about the IRS sending out $1,600 stimulus checks to people receiving Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
Many people are excited about this potential financial help, but it’s important to get the facts straight and clear up any confusion.
This article will explain what’s going on with these checks, who is eligible, and what you should expect.
What Are the $1,600 Stimulus Checks?
Contrary to what some might believe, there is no new $1,600 stimulus check being sent out by the IRS this week. Many online claims about these payments are either outdated or incorrect.
As of August 2024, Congress has not approved any new federal stimulus payments. This means that Social Security, SSI, and SSDI recipients will not be getting an extra $1,600 check.
Clarification on Existing Payments
The confusion comes from the IRS sending out different economic impact payments over the past few years. This includes $1,200, $600, and $1,400 checks from the CARES Act and the American Rescue Plan.
These payments were given to help people deal with the financial problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
But, these were one-time payments, and no new rounds have been approved for 2024.
Current Financial Assistance for Social Security, SSI, & SSDI Recipients
While there isn’t a new stimulus check, people who get Social Security, SSI, or SSDI will still get their usual monthly payments.
SSI recipients might get two payments in some months if the calendar lines up that way, but this isn’t an extra bonus or stimulus. For example, in September 2024, some SSI recipients will receive two payments because the first of October falls on a weekend.
IRS Guidance on Economic Impact Payments
For those who missed earlier stimulus payments, the IRS still lets people claim them through the Recovery Rebate Credit on their tax returns.
You can get this credit by filing a tax return for either 2020 or 2021, based on which payment you missed.
Recent Financial Assistance Programs
| Program | Amount | Eligibility | Distribution Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CARES Act Stimulus Payment | $1,200 | Individuals earning <$75,000 annually | March 2020 |
| Second Stimulus Payment | $600 | Individuals earning <$75,000 annually | December 2020 |
| American Rescue Plan Payment | $1,400 | Individuals earning <$75,000 annually | March 2021 |
| September 2024 SSI Double Payment | Regular Benefit | SSI recipients (not a bonus or stimulus) | September 2024 |
Conclusion
While rumors about a new $1,600 stimulus check are going around, it’s important to stick to the facts. Right now, no new federal stimulus checks are being sent out in 2024 for Social Security, SSI, or SSDI recipients.
If you missed any past payments, you can still claim them on your tax return. To stay up-to-date, check trusted sources like the IRS and Social Security Administration websites.
What economic impact payments have been sent out in the past?
Past payments included $1,200 from the CARES Act (March 2020), $600 (December 2020), and $1,400 from the American Rescue Plan (March 2021).
Will SSI recipients receive any extra payments in September 2024?
Some SSI recipients might receive two payments in September due to the calendar, but this is not an extra bonus or stimulus; it’s just a regular payment schedule.
How can I claim missed stimulus payments?
If you missed any past stimulus payments, you can claim them through the Recovery Rebate Credit by filing a tax return for 2020 or 2021.