By Arshi Pal, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

The President signed the Stimulus Package on March 27, 2020, which authorized direct payments to individuals and families. It was announced that individuals who filed taxes in 2018 or 2019 did not have to take further steps to receive their stimulus funds. However, the Social Security Administration further clarified that individuals who did not file taxes but receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security retirement, disability (SSDI), or Railroad Retirement and Survivor Benefits also do not need to take further steps to receive their stimulus funds. The Social Security Administration issued guidance explaining that recipients will receive the automatic payments in the same way as they receive their Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration also indicated that the stimulus payments will not be considered income for individuals who receive benefits. The payments will also be excluded from resources for 12 months.

The Social Security Administration’s News Release highlights individuals who have dependent children under 17 year of age may be eligible for an additional $500 for each child. The News Release urges such individuals to log onto www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here and provide their information. The SSA cautions that if this information regarding dependent children is not provided to the IRS website, then there may be a delay in receiving the funds for the dependent children.

If you or a loved one has special needs and requires assistance with benefits planning we can help. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you may have during these difficult times. Contact us here.