What year did stimulus checks go out? This question has been on the minds of many Americans, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stimulus checks, also known as economic impact payments, were implemented by the government to provide financial relief to individuals and families affected by the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. In this article, we will explore the years when these checks were distributed and the reasons behind their implementation.
The first round of stimulus checks was issued in 2020. The government passed the CARES Act, which authorized the distribution of $1,200 to eligible individuals. This initial round aimed to provide immediate financial assistance to those who were most affected by the pandemic. The checks were based on the recipient’s income, with married couples earning up to $150,000 and individuals earning up to $75,000 receiving the full amount. Dependents were also eligible for $500 each.
As the pandemic continued to impact the economy, a second round of stimulus checks was announced. This time, the government increased the amount to $2,400 for eligible individuals, $4,800 for married couples, and $500 for each dependent. The second round of checks was distributed in December 2020, following the passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021.
The third round of stimulus checks was released in 2021. This time, the government provided an additional $1,400 to eligible individuals, bringing the total amount to $3,400 for individuals, $6,800 for married couples, and $1,400 for each dependent. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 authorized this round of checks, which were distributed between March and April 2021.
As the pandemic situation evolved, the government continued to provide financial relief through stimulus checks. The fourth round of checks was issued in 2021, with eligible individuals receiving $1,400. This round was part of the American Rescue Plan Act and was distributed between September and October 2021.
The fifth and final round of stimulus checks was distributed in 2021 as well. This round, authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, provided an additional $1,400 to eligible individuals, bringing the total amount to $2,800 for individuals, $5,600 for married couples, and $1,400 for each dependent. The checks were distributed between November and December 2021.
In conclusion, stimulus checks were distributed in the years 2020 and 2021, with multiple rounds of checks issued to provide financial relief to Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s decision to distribute these checks was based on the need to support individuals and families who were most affected by the economic downturn. As the pandemic situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether further stimulus checks will be implemented in the future.