Uncashed stimulus check

[ladybuggin]

The first stimulus check for $2400 was received as a paper check and written to both me and my deceased spouse.   Long story short, the check was not cashed or deposited, mobile deposit was reported as received and accepted but then ultimately denied most likely because only I could sign the check and  it was written to both of us.  The check was issued over a year ago now and I just discovered this today.  Yup, I should have confirmed it was in the bank way earlier... it's been a very disconcerting year.

In Turbo Tax, can I enter 0 for the amount of the first stimulus check and $600 for the amount of the second stimulus check, or do I need to contact the IRS first?  This would generate a $3000 credit due to married filing jointly as a widower.  Both the $600 and 3rd $1400 checks were successfully deposited.

Thanks.

[DMarkM1]

First option is to try to contact the IRS and inquire as to the best way to handle. 

If you are unable to get through or get a good answer, then I recommend you indicate on your return that you did receive the stimulus payment (full amounts received) and then contact the IRS to work a replacement for the old check.  This way your return will process as normal.  

If not, your return is going to be delayed while everything is worked out since the IRS records will indicate you have the payments.

NOTE:  Deceased taxpayers who passed after 1 January 2020 are eligible for the stimulus payments.  Here is a link with more information.

[Critter-3]

Just like all stale dated checks you must request a new one ...  

If you received your payment by check and it was lost, stolen or destroyed, you should request a payment trace so the IRS can determine if your payment was cashed. See How do I request a payment trace to track my first or second Economic Impact Payments?

If a trace is initiated and the IRS determines that the check wasn’t cashed, the IRS will credit your account for that payment but the IRS cannot reissue your payment. Instead, you will need to claim the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2020 tax return if eligible.

Note: If you are filing your 2020 tax return before your trace is complete, do not include the payment amount on line 16 or 19 of the Recovery Rebate Credit Worksheet. If you do, you may receive a notice saying your 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit was changed, but an adjustment will be made after the trace is complete and it is determined your payment has not been cashed. You will not need to take any additional action to receive the credit.

If you were issued a payment and have not received it at all, see How do I request a payment trace to track my first or second Economic Impact Payments?  

https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/second-eip-faqs