The Coronavirus pandemic has brought about significant financial difficulties for many people. As a result, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) into law. This is a $2 trillion stimulus package that is providing assistance through a one time payment during this time. The amount of the check is determined by the government based on a person’s adjusted gross income listed on their most recent tax return. The majority of adults can expect to receive $1200 while couples can expect up to $2400. Parents who have children under 17 at the end of the tax year can expect to receive $500 per child.
As these are unprecedented times, these matters can cause confusion for those going through a divorce. It is because of this that it is important to continue reading below and contact an experienced New York divorce attorney for assistance.
If I Have a Pending Divorce Case, Who Gets the Stimulus Check?
Individuals who are currently going through a divorce during the Coronavirus outbreak may be unsure of how they will receive their stimulus check. It is important for them to know that stimulus checks for couples will go to the bank account they last provided to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on their latest tax return. If they filed jointly with their soon-to-be former spouse, they may need a divorce attorney to recover their share of the check.
How Can Child Custody or Support Affect the Stimulus Check?
During these times, there are many people experiencing a change in their physical and financial circumstances. This may affect where a stimulus check may go. For example, the person who filed as head of the household on the couple’s most recent tax return will receive the stimulus check for their family. In the event that a couple filed jointly and listed their children or their custody agreement changed since filing, an attorney may be needed for assistance.
It is important to know that regular federal rules that apply to child support are still in effect throughout the pandemic. This means child support agencies must report any past-due payments. In the event that a parent is not up to date with their child support, it is possible for their stimulus check to be intercepted by the state before it reaches their bank account. When this happens, it will be used towards their outstanding child support balance.
Contact our Firm
Matters of divorce and family law should be navigated with the guidance of an experienced attorney. If you need strong legal representation regarding matters of divorce, family law, and estate law, contact the Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C. to schedule a consultation today.
