UPDATE: The IRS updated the app; as of April 24th, the app now works for most 2018 filers. See my new post.
So let’s say your income was low enough in 2018 so you qualify for a Recovery Rebate/Economic Impact (aka stimulus) payment. You go to the IRS’s “Get My Payment” app, enter the information, and see the message:
According to information that we have on file, we cannot determine your eligibility for a payment at this time.
You want to enter your banking information to get a direct deposit. It turns out that you have two options: Receive a paper check during the next few weeks (to months), or file your 2019 tax return. The IRS added the following message regarding 2018 filers:
2018 Filers: If you need to change your account information or mailing address, file your 2019 taxes electronically as soon as possible. That is the only way to let us know your new information. [emphasis added]
So if you are an individual who will qualify based on 2018 or 2019, file 2019. If you’re an individual who will not qualify based on 2019 but do qualify based on 2018, you cannot enter banking information in the “Get My Payment” app. You’re stuck receiving a paper check sometime (unless the IRS updates the app).
Additionally, if you moved you should contact the IRS when they reopen to provide your new mailing address. I would suggest a phone call given that it will take weeks to months for the IRS to process paper change-of-address forms. I also strongly suggest maintaining a forwarding order with the Postal Service.
I would hope the IRS would change their app so that individuals like me who cannot file for months (I’m waiting on a K-1 that usually shows up in late July or early August) could enter their banking information. Unfortunately, it looks like I’ll get a paper check this summer.
Tags: 2020.Tax.Season, Get.My.Payment