How to Get Stimulus Payment as a US Expat

The US government has allowed US citizens to get three sets stimulus checks paid between $600-$1,400 with whomever met the certain requirements in 2020 or in 2021. Those who could and still can receive checks includes Americans living abroad – and if you had eligible children, you could receive an additional $500-$600 too. Why is this relevant in 2024? Well, if you haven’t gotten them yet – you still can! And who doesn’t need a little extra cash in this economy.

Now, what happens when you figure out you are eligible as an American expat, and want to get your Stimulus payment as soon as possible? Below we showcase basic support and updates, plus a personal example of what an American abroad did to receive her stimulus check, so you can too.

Basic Information About US Stimulus Payment

First Stimulus Check

US citizens are able to benefit from a $1,200 check or more within the following conditions:

• Are not dependent of another taxpayer
• Have a Social Security number
• Have adjusted gross income up to $75,000 for individuals, $112,500 for head of household filers, and $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns

If your adjusted gross income (AGI) is over the US Stimulus payment threshold ($75,000) you can still receive a check – but it will reduce according to your AGI. 

Second Stimulus Check

The second wave of US Stimulus checks for American expats came out in early January 2021. These checks included $600 or more – half the amount of the first check. Every qualified dependent (ie: child under 17 with a US Social Security number) will get $600.

Third Stimulus Check

Generally, becoming eligible for the third economic impact payment is the same as the second check. But, the price has increased to $1,400 for US citizen individuals, and $2,800 for US couples who file jointly.

What is new for this check is that qualified dependents like the elderly, disabled adults and college students can also receive $1,400.

Social Security Recipients Information 

If you are a SS recipient who receives monthly deposits from the US government, it is typically not a requirement to file a US tax return and need not take any action. You should be able to receive your Stimulus checks exactly how you normally receive your benefits.

Didn’t File a Tax Return? 

• If you didn’t file your 2021 tax return: Take advantage of the MyExpatTaxes software and file before June 17th, 2024! 
• If your worldwide income was lower than the tax filing threshold: You can still receive the Stimulus check by applying as a non-filer as a US citizen abroad. Unfortunately, the IRS Non-Filer portal is closed, so you’ll need to file a tax return to receive stimulus checks.

Essentially, as a US citizen abroad who couldn’t qualify for the first and second check in 2020 you could still be eligible with your 2021 tax year after using the streamlined procedure. To see if you qualify for stimulus checks, you can check via our software!

You can also take advantage of the Recovery Rebate Credit to receive the full stimulus payments you may have missed out on.

Streamlined Procedure

The Streamlined Procedure is like a simplified deal for folks living abroad who may have missed filing their US tax returns or reporting foreign financial assets. It’s a way to catch up without getting hit with the usual hefty penalties. The idea is to make it easier for expats to get back on track with their US tax obligations in a more hassle-free manner.

This procedure allows for you to make up three years of tax returns and six years of FBARs. However, you need to do this before the IRS sends you a letter because after that you cannot use this procedure.

Get Your US Stimulus Payment ASAP

Our team is ready to help you as an American abroad receive US stimulus checks as soon as possible. If you haven’t filed your US taxes already, do use our expat tax software. Start for free and pay when convinced!

Get started for free, pick a plan when you’re ready. Or see the Pricing Page for all the details.