
IRS Orders Stimulus Checks Sent to Dead People Returned
Here’s everything you need to know about this hot-button issue.
Why Did the IRS Send Payments to the Deceased?
As part of its rush to distribute stimulus payments, the IRS used recent tax return data. Unfortunately, this included records for individuals who filed taxes before passing away. Delayed cross-checking with federal death records caused these errors, resulting in millions being paid out to those who no longer qualify.
Who Has to Return the Payments?
If a stimulus payment was sent to a deceased individual, the money must be returned unless:
- The deceased was married and filed jointly with a surviving spouse. In this case, only the deceased’s portion must be returned. For instance, in a $2,400 payment to a couple, $1,200 would need to be returned.
How to Return the Payments
The IRS has outlined clear steps to return these payments:
- If the check is uncashed: Mail the original check back to the Treasury Department.
- If the check was cashed or directly deposited: Write a personal check or money order to “U.S. Treasury” and include “2020 EIP” along with the deceased person’s Social Security Number or Taxpayer ID in the memo line.
Further instructions and mailing addresses are available on the official IRS website.
Other Ineligible Recipients
The IRS also requires other groups to return payments they mistakenly received, including:
- Incarcerated individuals: Payments sent to prisoners must be returned.
- High earners: Those exceeding income limits for eligibility who mistakenly received payments.
- Dependents: College students or others who qualify as dependents on another taxpayer’s return.
Stimulus Eligibility Recap
Stimulus payment eligibility is based on income:
- Individuals earning up to $75,000 qualify for $1,200.
- Married couples earning up to $150,000 qualify for $2,400.
- Families can receive $500 for each dependent child.
- Payments phase out for individuals earning above $99,000 and couples earning more than $198,000.
Why It Matters
With more than $207 billion distributed and millions of Americans depending on stimulus payments, mistakes like this have caused significant public backlash. Critics have slammed the IRS for its errors, while others emphasize the importance of rapid distribution in times of crisis.
Protect Yourself from Scams
The IRS has warned taxpayers to beware of scams. No IRS representative will call, email, or text asking for personal information related to stimulus payments. Always refer to the official IRS website for guidance.
If you’ve received a stimulus payment in error, return it promptly. Not only is this required by law, but it also ensures funds are available for those who need them most. Visit the IRS website for detailed instructions and updates on this developing issue.
- Ford Faces Total Chaos as Tariffs, Lawsuits, and Recalls Pile Up - February 12, 2025
- Duolingo Just Killed Off Its Owl – And the Internet Is in Chaos - February 12, 2025
- State of Play 2025 Goes Live Soon – Huge PS5 Reveals Incoming - February 12, 2025