Claim missing stimulus check on 2020 tax return?

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
July 28, 2020
1 reply
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My wife and I immigrated to the US a number of years ago. She received a Social Security number with a 'Not valid for work' designation. A few years later, we got a green card and she was allowed to work.

As we didn't automatically get a stimulus check, I called the IRS and they told me: "Because of the flag on your wife's SS number, you're not eligible", even though our 2018 and 2019 tax returns were happily accepted with her working on in. I called the SS, but in order to change it, I have to mail her passport and green card, which I'm really uncomfortable doing (these are the two most important documents in her life)

I read it might be possible to claim the stimulus amount as a credit on our 2020 tax return.

Does any body have more information?

Texas Roger

Level 15

Yes the stimulus payment is actually an advance for a credit claimed on a 2020 tax return filed in early 2021. You can claim the credit when you file your 2020 tax return.

AmeliesUncle

Level 15

But in order to qualify for the credit on the 2020 tax return, she still needs to update her Social Security Card/Number that is valid for employment.

Have you asked if they are able to update her card with a face-to-face appointment, so you don't need to mail her documents? If you do need to mail her documents, you may consider Registered Mail.