Have you been patiently waiting for your gas stimulus check to arrive, only to find that it hasn’t come yet? You’re not alone in your confusion and frustration! With so much uncertainty and rumors circulating about this economic relief effort, it can be difficult to find reliable information on why you may not have received your gas stimulus check yet. In this article, we’ll help make sense of this confusing situation and provide answers as to why you haven’t received your check.
1. What is the Gas Stimulus Check?
The very idea of a “gas stimulus check” may sound exciting, even mysterious. But in actuality, it’s just another name for the specific relief offered with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
This relief specifically helps families cope with the economic security caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. To that effect, the federal government has introduced a number of cash assistance programs for those that qualify. At the moment, this includes stimulus checks, small business loans, and Unemployment Insurance.
Amongst this cash assistance is the Gas Stimulus Check. This simply allows families to claim a reimbursement for up to $600 for the cost of gasoline they purchased between March 13 and June 30, 2020.
The funds can be used for either the purchase of gas for vehicles or for E85 Ethanol Flex Fuel at any gas station in the US. In order to be eligible for the Gas Stimulus Check, the applicant must have a valid Social Security Number and a valid US address. The application process is relatively hassle-free and takes as little as 5 minutes.
- This relief specifically helps families cope with the economic security caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- At the moment, this includes stimulus checks, small business loans, and Unemployment Insurance.
- The Gas Stimulus Check allows families to claim a reimbursement for up to $600 for the cost of gasoline they purchased between March 13 and June 30, 2020.
- In order to be eligible for the Gas Stimulus Check, the applicant must have a valid Social Security Number and a valid US address.
2. What Factors May Have Prevented You From Receiving Your Check?
Bank Error
- Mistakes made by the bank while processing the payment.
- Wrong account number or routing number.
- The account does not exist or has insufficient funds.
It’s possible that a bank error caused the delay in the delivery of your check. Even the most reliable banks make mistakes on rare occasions. It is important to double-check your bank information and payment details to make sure the money is deposited correctly. It is also advisable to contact your bank to confirm that the check has been deposited correctly and to inquire about any potential delays.
Human Error
- Clerical errors made by the payee.
- Incorrect mailing address or payment instructions.
- The check was never received due to a lost package.
It is also possible that a small human error has caused the payment delay. Whether it is an incorrect address, a clerical mistake, or a lost package; if the payment never reaches the payee, it won’t be cashed out. It is important to triple check any payment instructions you are sending out to potential clients or customers to make sure there are no mistakes.
Lack of Communication
- Not providing enough information or instructions.
- Mailing address not being provided.
- The sender not confirming the payment has been sent.
Another reason you may not have received your check is due to a lack of communication. If the sender is not providing you with payment instructions or the necessary contact information, there will be a delay in the process. It is important to communicate with the sender regarding the payment method and make sure all necessary information is provided.
Dishonest Intent
- The sender not having the funds to pay you.
- Not intending to pay at all.
- The sender deliberately delaying the payment.
Lastly, the delay in the payment may be due to a more sinister situation. Your sender may not have the funds to pay you or they may not even intend to pay in the first place. It is important to ensure you are dealing with a legitimate payee and to always ask for proof of funds before entering into any payment arrangements.
3. Tax Filings: Are You Eligible?
Are You Eligible to File Taxes?
It can be a bit overwhelming to figure out who has to pay taxes and who does not. Different countries have different laws regarding taxation, so make sure to research what applies to you. Some of the most common criteria for tax filing eligibility include:
- Being an adult and a resident of the country in which you are filing
- Having an income that surpasses the tax-filing threshold
- Being self-employed or filing taxes on behalf of a business
Generally, it is advised to file your taxes even if you believe you aren’t eligible because there are many cases where deductions and credits can reduce your amount due and even result in a refund. Or, on the other hand, you may underestimate your eligibility and end up having to pay a hefty tax penalty.
In any case, make sure to research the tax laws in your country, and if you still find it confusing, contact a professional accountant to help you determine your tax filing eligibility. That way, you will be sure to maximize your possible deductions and credits.
4. What If Your Economic Situation Has Changed?
1. Notice Your Increased Losses
If your economic situation has suddenly changed, it is important to be aware of your losses. Consider all the tangible and intangible losses that you may have experienced due to your situation. This could include lost income, reduced savings, more financial obligations and more. Take note of all of these losses and prioritize which ones need to be addressed first.
2. Re-Evaluate Your Budget
Take a look at your budget and see where you need to cut back. Prioritize essentials while cutting out non-essentials as much as you can. In addition, look for ways to increase your income by taking on extra work or a second job. Consider reaching out to potential employers and see if there is an opportunity to gain the extra income that you need.
3. Utilize Financial Solutions Available
If you are struggling to manage your financial situation, there are a few options available.
- You may consider consolidating your debts into a single loan.
- You could look into a debt repayment plan with your creditors.
- You could also speak to a financial adviser for more options.
4. Ask for Help When Necessary
If you are finding the situation overwhelming, do not hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to family and friends to support and advise you. You can also look into community services and government programs that offer financial assistance. Asking for help and advice can make managing your finances much easier.
5. What To Do If Your Stimulus Check Is Delayed
1. Contact Your Bank or Financial Institution
If your stimulus check has not arrived, the first step you should take is to contact your bank or financial institution. Inquire about the status of the check and double-check that you have provided the correct contact information for your account. If any information has been entered incorrectly or is missing, you could face further delays in receiving your payment.
2. Verify Your Address With The IRS
Be sure to check that your address is correct with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you’ve moved recently, you will need to update your address in order to receive your payment. Fortunately, the IRS offers a secure way to verify and update your address information directly on its website.
3. Reach Out to the IRS
Once you’ve updated your address and verified that the check is on its way, your next step should be to reach out to the IRS. You can do so by phone or mail. If you have any questions regarding the status of your check, be sure to have your filing status and social security number on hand when you call or write.
4. Contact Your Senators
In the event that the IRS is unable to answer any of your questions or provide an update on the status of your stimulus check, your next point of contact should be your state’s senators. They can reach out to the IRS on your behalf and look into what the hold-up is. You can find the contact information of your senators’ offices on their websites.
6. Common Questions About the Gas Stimulus Check
The thought of a stimulus check can evoke a sense of relief, yet new questions arise. Here are some common queries on the current gas stimulus check, answered.
Are my car-related expenses eligible? Yes, your car-related expenses such as fuel, repairs/maintenance, insurance, and more are eligible. To take advantage of the major savings, keep your gas receipt on hand.
Am I eligible to receive the gas stimulus check? Most citizens in the U.S. are eligible for a stimulus check. If you are current with filing taxes, have a valid Social Security number, and earned $87,000 or less in 2019 then you can expect to get a stimulus check.
Does the gas stimulus check expire? No, the stimulus check does not expire. Each year, the U.S. government writes a new economic stimulus check for eligible taxpayers. Once you are approved, you can receive the money immediately.
What other benefits will I receive? Along with the gas stimulus check, there are a variety of additional benefits available, such as:
- Discounted lodging
- Discounted rental car rates
- Traffic enforcement credits.
- Highway toll discounts.
This will allow everyone to take advantage of the stimulus check and get extra savings.
7. Exploring Alternative Forms of Assistance
At times, people may require quality assistance outside of their network of family and friends. In such instances, there are a variety of alternative forms of assistance those in need can turn to explore. Here are seven options for individuals or families seeking help.
- Government Benefits – Government benefits may be available for those who meet certain eligibility criteria. Some benefits that may be available include Social Security, disability, and welfare payments.
- Charities – Charitable organizations provide monetary assistance and other forms of aid to those in need. Local churches, religious organizations, and food or clothing drives may also be available and eager to help.
- Financial Aid – Financial aid may be offered through several sources like the federal or state governments, or local organizations. Loans, grants, and scholarships are a few common types of financial aid.
In addition to these options, there are a variety of other ways of obtaining assistance. It’s important to investigate your options thoroughly in order to get the best assistance available. Here are some other alternatives you should consider:
- Crowdfunding – Crowdfunding websites have increased in popularity as a way to raise money for a cause. Using a platform like GoFundMe, people have been able to share their stories to mobilize friends and strangers to give monetary donations.
- Job Training Programs – Government job training programs can provide skills to individuals to help them land better jobs. There are a multitude of job training programs available, from business and management skills, to STEM and healthcare education.
- Utility Assistance Programs – Many utility companies offer assistance to those in need. These programs often help cover heating and water bills to prevent people from being taken advantage of or falling into debt.
In conclusion, when you’re in need of assistance, it’s wise to explore all the options that are available to you—from government benefits and charities, to job training and utility assistance programs. Finding the right form of help can put you on the path to a better life.
If you find yourself among a growing list of those who are still waiting to get their gas stimulus check, don’t lose hope. With extensive research and any follow-up actions necessary, you may still be able to receive your funds. Be sure to stay informed and take the steps that are necessary to ensure that your voice is heard.