Do Felons Get A Stimulus Check? (Full Guide)
The stimulus checks have been a hot topic since the start of the pandemic. These checks were given to those who needed financial assistance, especially low-income and middle-class families. However, one question that arises is whether felons are eligible for these stimulus checks or not. In this article, we will answer this question and provide an in-depth analysis of the situation.
What is a stimulus check?
A stimulus check is a one-time payment given to Americans by the government to provide financial relief during times of economic distress. These checks were introduced as part of the CARES Act in March 2020 and have been given out periodically since then.
Who is eligible for a stimulus check?
The eligibility for stimulus checks is determined by various factors, including age, income, and tax-filing status.
The CARES Act
The CARES Act, which was passed in March 2020, provided stimulus checks to most Americans. Eligibility was based on factors such as income, tax-filing status, and age. However, the act did not exclude felons from receiving the checks. Therefore, felons who met the eligibility criteria were eligible to receive the stimulus checks.
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was passed in March 2021 and provided additional stimulus checks to Americans. Similar to the CARES Act, the ARPA did not exclude felons from receiving the checks.
The Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA)
The Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) was passed in December 2020 and provided another round of stimulus checks. However, unlike the CARES Act and the ARPA, the CAA excluded incarcerated individuals from receiving the checks. This means that felons who are currently in jail or prison are not eligible for the stimulus checks.
Also Read: Can a Felon Travel to the Cayman Islands? What You Should Know
The impact of felony charges
The impact of felony charges on stimulus check eligibility is dependent on various factors, such as the type of felony and the state where the individual resides. In some cases, individuals with felony charges may not be eligible for stimulus checks.
Probation and parole
Individuals who are on probation or parole are eligible for stimulus checks, as long as they meet the other eligibility criteria. However, if an individual is on parole or probation and owes child support, the stimulus check may be garnished to pay off the debt.
Can felons claim past stimulus checks?
Felons who did not receive the stimulus checks they were eligible for can claim them by filing a tax return. The IRS has extended the deadline for filing taxes for 2020 to May 17, 2021. Therefore, felons who have not received their stimulus checks can claim them by filing their taxes.
Also Read: What Happens if a Felon gets Caught with a Gun?
How can felons claim their stimulus checks?
Felons who are eligible for stimulus checks can claim them by filing a tax return for the year they were eligible. They can do this by using the IRS non-filer tool or by filing a paper tax return. If they have already filed their taxes and did not receive the stimulus check, they can claim it by filing an amended tax return.
State policies on stimulus checks for felons
In some states, felons may not be eligible for stimulus checks even if they meet the federal eligibility criteria. For example, in Mississippi, felons who owe court fines, fees, or restitution are not eligible for stimulus checks. Therefore, it is essential to check the state policies regarding stimulus checks for felons.
- Common misconceptions
- There are several misconceptions regarding stimulus checks for felons, such as:
- All felons are ineligible for stimulus checks
- Felons who owe child support are not eligible for stimulus checks
- Felons who owe taxes are not eligible for stimulus checks
However, these misconceptions are not accurate, and felons who meet the eligibility criteria can receive stimulus checks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, felons are eligible for stimulus checks as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. The CARES Act, the ARPA, and the CAA did not exclude felons from receiving the checks, except for those who are currently incarcerated. Felons who have not received their stimulus checks can claim them by filing a tax return. However, state policies regarding stimulus checks for felons may vary, and it is essential to check them before claiming the stimulus check.
FAQs
Can felons who are currently incarcerated receive stimulus checks?
No, felons who are currently incarcerated are not eligible for stimulus checks.
Can felons on probation or parole receive stimulus checks?
Yes, felons on probation or parole can receive stimulus checks if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Can felons claim past stimulus checks?
Yes, felons who did not receive their stimulus checks can claim them by filing a tax return.
Are felons who owe child support eligible for stimulus checks?
Felons who owe child support may have their stimulus checks garnished to pay off the debt.
Do state policies affect stimulus check eligibility for felons?
Yes, state policies may affect stimulus check eligibility for felons. It is essential to check the policies of the state before claiming the stimulus check.
