For many in the US, the $1,200 stimulus check offered by the government in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic is a welcome source of fiscal relief. However, many parents in child custody arrangements have questions about how the stimulus check will impact them. Well, sit tight, because we have answers.
Can the Government Seize My Stimulus Checks for Delinquent Child Support?
Yes, the government can seize your stimulus check to repay delinquent child support. However, it is worth noting that the stimulus check doesn't count as taxable income, and cannot be seized to repay other debts such as student loans.
As part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which is responsible for the stimulus check, custodial parents are also entitled to an extra $500 per child. So, for example, if you're the custodial parent of three children, you should receive a stimulus check for $2,700 ($1,200 plus $500 for each of your three children) as long as you paid your 2018 and 2019 tax returns.
However, the IRS has notified many parents that the $500 stimulus support for children is taking longer than expected to reach parents. The IRS recently issued a statement saying parents who did not receive the $500 per child money may have to wait until 2021 to get it.
If you filed joint taxes with your ex in 2018 or 2019, a collective stimulus check ($2,400 plus $500 per child) will either be deposited into the account the taxes were paid from, or mailed to the address on the tax return. If you no longer reside at the address you filed taxes from in the last two years, you either need to file form 8822 to change your address with the IRS, or contact your ex to split the stimulus money between you.
To contact a knowledgeable family lawyer about your child support arrangement, reach out to us online or via phone at (951) 779-1610.