Social media is buzzing about Economic Impact Payments –or “stimulus checks” – from the federal government. If you filed an income tax return in 2018 and 2019, and are eligible, the IRS has pledged to send you:

  • $1,200 if you are an individual
  • $2,400 to married couples, and
  • $500 for each of your dependent children under 17 years old.

But what if you didn’t file a federal income tax return for the last two years?

If you meet the following requirements, you should still be able to receive a government-issued stimulus check as a “Non-Filer”:

You are a U.S. citizen, or a permanent resident, who:

  • Had gross income that did not exceed $12,200 ($24,400 for married couples) for 2019
  • Were not otherwise required to file a federal income tax return for 2019, and didn’t plan to.

If you are an eligible non-filer, get your stimulus check by providing the IRS with your information on this website.

Submitting your information to the IRS is fast, easy and FREE.

Once you have completed the non-filer form, you will receive an email confirmation. You may be asked for additional information to correct your application. Otherwise, you won’t need to take any additional action.

For more guidance on how to complete a non-filer form, and what information you’ll want to have handy, visit the IRS’s Non-Filer Payment Info webpage. The IRS is sharing a lot of information about stimulus payments, including Frequently Asked Questions.

Get help preparing this year’s taxes

While the IRS’s website will help you get a stimulus check as a non-filer, other online resources can also help you file this year’s taxes. Remember, you now have until July 15, 2020 to file your federal tax return and claim refunds.

The Campaign for Working Families, a Philly-based non-profit group, is helping residents file current returns with a virtual tax preparation portal. You can submit your documents through the portal, and then speak to a certified tax preparer who will help you complete your federal return.

If you prefer to do your own taxes, and make less $66,000 a year, the United Way is also offering free self tax-preparation software.