Approximately 150 million Americans have received stimulus checks from the IRS this year as a part of relief efforts from the current global economic crisis. Tax Attorney Charles R. Frazier answers four frequently asked tax questions about those funds in this article.

Do I have to pay income tax on my IRS stimulus check? 

No, the Payment is not includible in your gross income.  Therefore, you will not include the Payment in your taxable income on your Federal income tax return or pay income tax on your Payment. 

Can the IRS garnish my check and apply it towards an outstanding tax bill? 

No, with one exception. The Payment may be offset only by past-due child support. The Bureau of the Fiscal Service will send you a notice if an offset occurs.

If I didn't file taxes in 2018 or 2019, is it too late to file and receive a stimulus check? 

Use the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) online tool that provides answers to tax questions. The “Do I Need to File a Tax Return?” tool can help you determine if you're required to file a 2019 federal income tax return.

Answer the questions about your filing status, federal income tax withheld, and basic information to help you determine your gross income to see if you need to file a 2019 tax return. If you had no income or income under a certain amount, you are not required to file a tax return. If you are not required to file a tax return, the “Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info Here” tool is the fastest way to get your Payment.

Will my stimulus check negate and replace my regular income tax refund that I normally get? 

A Payment will not reduce your refund or increase the amount you owe when you file your 2020 Federal income tax return.

A Payment also will not affect your income for purposes of determining eligibility for federal government assistance or benefit programs.

For more information or for legal assistance with this or other tax matters, feel free to contact the Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier. We are accepting new clients. For the safety and protection of you and our employees, consultations are being conducted by phone and video conference call.