Consumer Alert
Checks from the government
Please visit Coronavirus stimulus payment scams: What you need to know for the most recent information.
As the Coronavirus takes a growing toll on people’s pocketbooks, there are reports that the government will soon be sending money by check or direct deposit to each of us. The details are still being worked out, but there are a few really important things to know, no matter what this looks like.
1. The government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get this money. No fees. No charges. No nothing.
2. The government will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number. Anyone who does is a scammer.
3. These reports of checks aren’t yet a reality. Anyone who tells you they can get you the money now is a scammer.
Look, normally we’d wait to know what the payment plan looks like before we put out a message like this. But these aren’t normal times. And we predict that the scammers are gearing up to take advantage of this.
So, remember: no matter what this payment winds up being, only scammers will ask you to pay to get it. If you spot one of these scams, please tell the Federal Trade Commission: www.ftc.gov/complaint. We’re doing our best to stop these scammers in their tracks, and your report will help.
Keep up to date with the latest Coronavirus-related scams at www.ftc.gov/coronavirus or by signing up to get these consumer alerts.
Watch these videos for more tips on how to avoid ecomonic impact payment scams:
Updated link added on April 21, 2020.
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In reply to How do I get my check. Do not by Artien
In reply to I have a netspend account by raquel.47gray
On April 20, the Social Security Administration said if you get Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you don't need to take any action with the IRS.
Social Security said "You will automatically get your $1,200 economic impact payment directly from the IRS. You should receive the automatic payments by direct deposit, Direct Express debit card, or by paper check, just as you would normally receive your Social Security benefits."
In reply to I have a direct express card. by Don't use your…
In reply to Will people that are unable by Lisa
The IRS has questions and answers about who is eligible for a payment, what to do to get a payment, and much more.