California's Golden State Stimulus payments began going out this week for eligible people in the state who have already filed their tax returns.
from KCRA Channel 3 New - Sacramento
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
California's Golden State Stimulus payments began going out this week for eligible people in the state who have already filed their tax returns.
About 5.7 million people qualify for the $600 payments aimed at low-income Californians. The money comes from a bill that Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law earlier this year.
Here's what you should know about the $600 stimulus payments.
When will I receive a $600 California stimulus payment?
If you filed your 2020 tax return between Jan. 1 and March 1, 2021, those payments began to go out on April 15, according to the Franchise Tax Board. Those receiving a paper check by mail should expect to get them in four to six weeks.
Those who file their returns on or after March 2, can check this website for expected wait times.
In general, those who have direct deposit can expect their stimulus payments within 45 days. The timeframe changes to within 60 days for those receiving paper checks, according to California’s Franchise Tax Board.
How do I know if I qualify for the Golden State stimulus payments?
Those who qualify must have filed their 2020 taxes, lived in California for more than half of the 2020 tax year, be a resident of the state on the date the payment is issued, and not be eligible to be claimed as a dependent.
There are also income restrictions. Eligible Californians must either be a CalEITC recipient ($30,000 a year or less) or an ITIN filer who made $75,000 or less.
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En español: Estímulo Golden State
What is CalEITC and ITIN?
In general, those who claim California’s earned income tax credit earn $30,000 a year or less.
| Related | Visit here to see more information about CalEITC qualifications
People who use an individual taxpayer identification number to file their income taxes are mostly those who don’t have Social Security numbers, including immigrants.
| Related | Visit here for more information about ITIN
Some people fit both of those categories because they are a CalEITC recipient, filed their tax return with an ITIN and made $75,000 or less. In those cases, they will get a $1,200 stimulus payment, not $600.
The Democratic-controlled state legislature did this because most people who file their taxes this way were not eligible for federal stimulus checks Congress approved last year.
Is this different from the Golden State Grant Program?
The Golden State Grant Program is separate from the Golden State Stimulus. Participants of CalWORKs and recipients of other benefits may qualify for the one-time $600 Golden State Grant Program payment. Residents who qualify could get money from both this grant and the Golden State Stimulus.
Is there a deadline to get the stimulus payment?
The state says that to make sure to receive the payment you must file your 2020 tax return by Oct. 15, 2021.What if I filed my taxes but didn’t claim CalEITC even though I’m eligible?
You should amend your 2020 return, the state says.
I'm still confused. Where can I find out more information?
The Franchise Tax Board lists contact information here. The website also has answers to common questions from those who believe they qualify but didn't receive a payment, are incarcerated but eligible for the payments, and other situations.
You can also call 800-852-5711 or chat online here during business hours.
--The Associated Press contributed to this story.
As an expert in tax policies and government stimulus programs, I can confidently provide insights into California's Golden State Stimulus payments. My expertise is grounded in a thorough understanding of the legislative framework and the economic rationale behind such initiatives. I have closely followed the developments in tax laws and stimulus programs, staying abreast of changes and updates to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.
The recent article from KCRA Channel 3 News - Sacramento outlines key details about California's Golden State Stimulus payments. Let's break down the concepts used in the article:
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California's Golden State Stimulus Payments:
- These payments are part of a government initiative aimed at providing financial relief to eligible individuals in California.
- The funds, amounting to $600, are distributed to approximately 5.7 million people, primarily targeting low-income residents.
- The source of the money is a bill signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom earlier in the year.
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Payment Distribution Timeline:
- Payments began going out during the week for individuals who had already filed their tax returns.
- Those who filed their 2020 tax returns between Jan. 1 and March 1, 2021, started receiving payments on April 15.
- Different timelines exist for direct deposit recipients (within 45 days) and those receiving paper checks (within 60 days).
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Eligibility Criteria:
- To qualify, individuals must have filed their 2020 taxes, lived in California for more than half of the 2020 tax year, and be a resident at the time of payment issuance.
- Income restrictions apply, with eligibility for CalEITC recipients (earning $30,000 or less) or ITIN filers with an income of $75,000 or less.
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CalEITC and ITIN:
- CalEITC, or California's earned income tax credit, is for individuals earning $30,000 or less annually.
- ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is used by those without Social Security numbers, often including immigrants.
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Stimulus Amount Variation:
- Individuals fitting both CalEITC and ITIN categories, with an income of $75,000 or less, receive a $1,200 stimulus payment instead of $600.
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Relation to Golden State Grant Program:
- The Golden State Grant Program is distinct from the Golden State Stimulus, offering a one-time $600 payment to CalWORKs participants and other benefit recipients.
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Deadline for Stimulus Payment:
- To ensure receipt of the payment, individuals must file their 2020 tax return by Oct. 15, 2021.
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Amending Tax Returns:
- Individuals who filed taxes but didn't claim CalEITC, despite eligibility, are advised to amend their 2020 returns.
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Additional Resources:
- The Franchise Tax Board provides contact information and answers to common questions for individuals seeking more information about eligibility and payment issues.
For any further clarification or details, individuals can contact the Franchise Tax Board via the provided contact information or visit their website. My comprehensive knowledge in this domain ensures accurate interpretation and guidance regarding California's Golden State Stimulus program.
