Stimulus Check FAQ's: Part 1 - Where is My Money?

As Americans begin to receive their stimulus funds, many questions have arisen and I’d like to review the most common ones I have received thus far, mostly to do with “where is my money?”

Please note that in this blog, GMP stands for the Get My Payment tool from the IRS.

Why am I getting "Payment Status Not Available”?

The IRS’ GMP tool "Payment Status Not Available" usually occurs because the IRS hasn’t processed your 2019 return or they don’t have your data.  There are many reasons why the IRS might not have your data, including that you don’t normally file a tax return, or you receive social security and do not need to file a tax return.

The IRS has to import much of the required data from other government agencies to obtain your bank or address information.  For example, If you receive social security, but do not file a tax return, then the IRS has to retrieve your information from the Social Security Administration (the IRS and SSA are two separate systems).

The GMP tool is updated overnight so there is no need to check more often than once a day.

What does "Payment Status Not Available” mean?

 It means the IRS cannot determine your eligibility for a payment at this time. For example, you did not file a 2018 or 2019 tax return, or you recently filed and the return has not been fully processed.  It’s these kinds of situations that can take several months for the IRS to resolve.

Where did the IRS get my bank information, and what if I need to change it?

Your bank account information is usually captured from your 2018 or 2019 tax return provided your refund or payment was made electronically.  Or if you used the Non-Filer tool.  If the GMP tool indicates your payment is pending or has been processed, you cannot change your bank account information.

My bank account information changed since I filed. Can I update it using the GMP tool?

Maybe.  The GMP tool cannot update direct deposit bank account information after your payment has been scheduled for delivery. The GMP tool does not allow anyone to change direct deposit bank account information already on file with the IRS. However, people who did not use direct deposit on their last tax return or when their direct deposit information was inaccurate and resulted in a refund check, will be able to provide that information to the IRS.

I closed the bank account that I used on my 2018 or 2019 tax return. Can I change it using Get My Payment?

No.  If you closed your bank account then the bank will reject the deposit and your payment will be mailed to the address they have on file for you. Also, if the GMP tool shows that your payment has been processed, you cannot change your bank account information.

As I continue to receive more questions about this process, I will update my blog, so please check back often for updates. If you have a specific question not addressed here, please feel free to contact me.