IRS stimulus check 'Get My Payment' portal for tracking checks: Where is my money? How to check status?

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Wondering if the check is in the mail?

The IRS has launched a new tool to enable those expecting stimulus checks to track the status of their payment. It will also offer “eligible people a chance to provide their bank account information so they can receive their payment more quickly rather than waiting for a paper check.” The IRS website states that this option will be unavailable if a paper check has already been scheduled.

However, while the portal was functioning early Wednesday, by mid-morning users who tried to log in were greeted with a message that read, “Due to high demand, you may have to wait longer than usual to access this site.” Other users reported that after being asked to wait, they were able to input their information, but then received a message reading “Payment Status Not Available” and were directed to a FAQ page.

This comes after the IRS last week launched a tool for those who do not pay income taxes—an estimated 44% of Americans—to file for their stimulus payments via a new web portal.

According to the IRS, tens of millions of stimulus checks have already gone out. The agency’s website states that “Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for either 2019 or 2018 and chose direct deposit of their refund will automatically receive an Economic Impact Payment of up to $1,200 for individuals or $2,400 for married couples and $500 for each qualifying child. Individuals who receive Social Security retirement, survivors or disability benefits, SSDI or who receive Railroad Retirement benefits but did not file a return for 2019 or 2018 will automatically receive a payment in the near future.”

The stimulus payments, as part of the CARES Act, are an attempt to soften the blow dealt by the economic shutdown by providing direct cash assistance to Americans. In addition, a $350 billion program administered by the SBA aims to help small-business owners, as well as freelancers and independent contractors who have been hurt by the shutdown. The SBA Paycheck Protection Program extends loans to eligible small businesses, but they can be forgiven and essentially turned into grants as long as businesses meet certain criteria. Another program is aimed at avoiding foreclosures by aiding homeowners with mortgage forbearance.

Updates on these and other programs can be found at www.irs.gov/coronavirus.

Wednesday, April 15: This story has been updated to reflect users who experienced issues accessing their information via the Get My Payment portal Wednesday morning.