What is "fourth stimulus check eligibility"?

Detailed explanation, definition and information about fourth stimulus check eligibility

Detailed Explanation

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As of September 2021, there has been a lot of discussion and speculation surrounding the possibility of a fourth stimulus check in the United States. The previous three rounds of stimulus checks were distributed to help Americans cope with the economic hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there has been no official confirmation from the government regarding a fourth stimulus check, and eligibility criteria have not been outlined.

In order to understand potential eligibility for a fourth stimulus check, it is important to review the criteria that were used for the previous rounds of stimulus payments. In general, eligibility for the first three stimulus checks was based on a combination of factors, including income level, filing status, and dependent status.



For the first round of stimulus checks, which were distributed as part of the CARES Act in March 2020, individuals with adjusted gross incomes (AGI) of up to $75,000 and couples with AGIs of up to $150,000 were eligible to receive the full payment of $1,200 per individual or $2,400 per couple, with an additional $500 per dependent child under the age of 17. The payment amount decreased for individuals with AGIs above $75,000 and phased out completely for individuals with AGIs above $99,000 and couples with AGIs above $198,000.

The second round of stimulus checks, which were distributed as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act in December 2020, followed similar income thresholds. Individuals with AGIs of up to $75,000 and couples with AGIs of up to $150,000 were eligible to receive the full payment of $600 per individual or $1,200 per couple, with an additional $600 per dependent child. The payment amount decreased for individuals with AGIs above $75,000 and phased out completely for individuals with AGIs above $87,000 and couples with AGIs above $174,000.



The third round of stimulus checks, which were distributed as part of the American Rescue Plan Act in March 2021, had slightly different income thresholds. Individuals with AGIs of up to $75,000 and couples with AGIs of up to $150,000 were eligible to receive the full payment of $1,400 per individual or $2,800 per couple, with an additional $1,400 per dependent of any age. The payment amount decreased for individuals with AGIs above $75,000 and phased out completely for individuals with AGIs above $80,000 and couples with AGIs above $160,000.

It is important to note that the income thresholds and payment amounts for a potential fourth stimulus check have not been determined, as there has been no official announcement from the government regarding a fourth round of stimulus payments. However, based on the criteria used for the previous rounds of stimulus checks, it is likely that income level will continue to be a key factor in determining eligibility.



In addition to income level, other factors that may impact eligibility for a fourth stimulus check include filing status and dependent status. Individuals who file as head of household or as a married couple filing jointly may have different income thresholds for eligibility compared to individuals who file as single or as a married couple filing separately. Additionally, individuals who are claimed as dependents on someone else's tax return may not be eligible to receive a stimulus check themselves.

It is also worth noting that eligibility for a potential fourth stimulus check may be impacted by other factors, such as citizenship status and employment status. In the past, individuals who were not U.S. citizens or permanent residents were not eligible to receive a stimulus check. Additionally, individuals who were unemployed or who had experienced a loss of income due to the pandemic may have been eligible for additional benefits, such as enhanced unemployment benefits, rather than a stimulus check.



In conclusion, while there has been no official confirmation from the government regarding a fourth stimulus check, it is important to consider the criteria that were used for the previous rounds of stimulus payments when discussing potential eligibility. Income level, filing status, dependent status, citizenship status, and employment status are likely to be key factors in determining eligibility for a fourth stimulus check, if one is approved. As the situation continues to evolve, it is important to stay informed and be prepared to take action if and when a fourth stimulus check is announced.