Stimulus Check Eligibility for Non-Filers and Dependents

If you are a 21-year-old non-filer who did not file a tax return in 2019 but are not claimed as a dependent by your parents in 2018, you may wonder whether you're eligible for a stimulus check. This article will help clarify the situation and provide guidance on what actions you should take.

Non-Filers and Stimulus Checks

A stimulus check is an advance payment of a refundable tax credit for the 2020 tax year. The IRS used your 2019 or 2018 tax return to estimate the amount you would be eligible for. If you did not file a tax return in those years, it is crucial to understand the eligibility requirements.

Dependents and Stimulus Checks

If you are claimed as a dependent on your parents' taxes, you are not eligible for a stimulus check. However, your parents should claim you as a dependent to ensure that the correct amount is allocated to you, as leaving money on the table could mean missing out on thousands of dollars for you and your family.

The Importance of Filing

Even if your parents file without claiming you, you will not be eligible for a stimulus check. Your parents or anyone else cannot make you a non-dependent for tax purposes by choosing not to claim a dependency exemption. You must state that you are eligible to be claimed as a dependent if you were or are eligible to be claimed.

Eligibility of a Dependent

To be eligible for a dependent, you need to meet certain criteria. For instance, if you were eligible to be a dependent even if no one claimed you, you are still not eligible for a stimulus payment. You need to provide for more than half of your own support or be over 24 and a full-time student. In many cases, being claimed as a dependent by your parents results in better tax benefits for you.

Statement of Facts

No matter what, if you can be claimed as a dependent, you must state that fact on your personal tax return. It does not matter if you are not actually claimed as a dependent. It is important to be truthful in your tax filings to avoid any confusion or issues with eligibility.

Actions to Take

Even if your parents have not yet filed their 2019 taxes, your 1400 stimulus check will be based on the 2018 return. However, it is essential to coordinate with your parents next year when you file your own taxes. If you have not received any stimulus checks, you can claim both payments when you file your 2020 taxes. To ensure you receive any previous checks you might be eligible for, consider signing up online with the IRS for those who did not file a previous tax return.

Next Steps

To maximize your potential for receiving stimulus checks, take the following steps:

File a tax return for 2019, if you have not already. Even if you do not have income, this will help ensure you are eligible for future stimulus checks. Ensure your parents claim you as a dependent when they file their taxes. This will help maintain your eligibility for stimulus checks. Check the IRS website for any special sign-up processes if you did not file a previous tax return. This can help you access any previous stimulus payments you are eligible for.

Conclusion

Understanding the rules around stimulus checks and dependents can be complex. However, with careful planning and coordination, you can ensure you receive any stimulus checks you are eligible for. Always consult the latest IRS guidelines to stay up-to-date on changes and requirements.