Who authorizes stimulus checks? This is a question that has been on the minds of many Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the government implementing various economic relief measures to support citizens affected by the crisis, understanding the authorization process behind stimulus checks is crucial. In this article, we will delve into the details of who is responsible for authorizing these checks and how the process works.
The responsibility for authorizing stimulus checks lies with the United States Congress. As the legislative branch of the federal government, Congress has the authority to pass laws that allocate funds for economic relief programs, including stimulus checks. The process begins with the introduction of a bill that outlines the terms and conditions of the stimulus payments.
Once a bill is introduced, it goes through a series of legislative procedures, including committee hearings, debates, and voting. During this time, members of Congress scrutinize the bill to ensure that it meets the needs of the American people and complies with legal and financial regulations. If the bill passes both the House of Representatives and the Senate, it is sent to the President for approval.
The President plays a crucial role in the authorization process. After reviewing the bill, the President can either sign it into law, veto it, or take no action. If the President signs the bill, it becomes law, and the Treasury Department is responsible for distributing the stimulus checks to eligible recipients.
The Treasury Department, under the guidance of the Secretary of the Treasury, oversees the distribution of stimulus checks. The department works in collaboration with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify eligible recipients and determine the amount of each check. The IRS uses the information from taxpayers’ previous tax returns to determine eligibility and calculate the amount of the stimulus payment.
It is important to note that the authorization process for stimulus checks can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the needs of the American people. For instance, during the first round of stimulus checks in 2020, Congress authorized checks for individuals earning up to $75,000, married couples earning up to $150,000, and heads of households earning up to $112,500. The eligibility criteria and the amount of the checks were adjusted in subsequent rounds of stimulus legislation.
In conclusion, the authorization of stimulus checks is a multi-step process that involves the United States Congress, the President, and the Treasury Department. By understanding the roles and responsibilities of each entity, Americans can gain insight into how these critical economic relief measures are implemented during times of crisis.
