I did get my stimulus checks in 2021, not during 2020. Why do they affect my 2020 tax return?

[cgav96]

My checks came in 2021. My 2020 return shows one figure I owe if I said I received in 2020 and a lot less if I say I did not receive the checks in 2020. Why?

[KathrynG3]

Both stimulus checks must be reported on the 2020 Tax Return for the Recovery Rebate Credit. Even though the check was received in 2021, the legislation was passed in 2020. Therefore, it is being included in the 2020 tax year filing. 

To return to this area of your return and adjust it, follow these steps:

1. Go to the search box and enter stimulus. Click the Jump to link.
2. Answer Yes.
3. At the next screen, Let's double-check the amount you received, answer No to edit the first-round and second-round amounts.
4. If no stimulus amount was received, enter 0. An amount should be entered in each box. When finished, click Continue.