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Dear [firstname],
I hope this email finds you and your loved ones healthy and safe. Our hearts break for the continued loss of life we’re seeing because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic across the country and in our own community. As the numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths in El Paso continue to climb, we know that the fight against this virus is far from over.

Everyone in our community – from workers, small businesses, students, veterans, and healthcare professionals – is faced with one of the greatest challenges of our lifetime.

As I continue working with my colleagues in Congress toward passing additional COVID-19 legislation, I want to make sure you have all information available regarding the Economic Stimulus Payments made available by the CARES Act.
Economic Impact Payments

The public health and economic consequences of COVID-19 are significant. For this reason, Congress appropriated funds to help El Pasoans who are experiencing a significant cash crunch during this public health crisis afford essentials like rent and food.

Starting this week, El Pasoans have already begun receiving payments in their bank accounts via direct deposit. The amount you will receive will vary on your income:

  • Individuals making up to $75,000 will receive $1,200;
  • Married couples making up to $150,000 will receive $2,400;
  • Heads of households (i.e. single parents) making up to $112,000 will receive $1,200.
  • Additionally, individuals or married couples with dependents will receive an additional $500 payment per minor child.

The payments decrease and stop altogether for single workers making more than $99,000 ($198,000 for married couples and $218,000 for a family of four.)

Individuals who receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, retirement or other social safety net benefits still qualify for direct payments. These payments will not be taxable nor represent “resources” for program eligibility purposes. 

Economic Impact Payments will be delivered automatically to eligible individuals in the coming weeks depending on how they receive tax refunds. Those who receive refunds via direct deposit can expect a payment this week. Those who receive paper checks can expect a check in the mail beginning the first week of May.

Click here for more information from the IRS and click here for a FAQ page on my website. 

For Those Who File Taxes

If you file taxes and have not received your payment, the IRS has created the "Filers: Get My Payment" tool to help ensure you get your payment.

If you want to track the status of your payment, you will need to enter basic information in the “Get My Payment” portal:
  • Social Security Number
  • Date of birth
  • Mailing address
If you want to add your bank account information to speed receipt of your payment, you will also need to provide the following additional information:
  • Your Adjusted Gross Income from your most recent tax return submitted, either 2019 or 2018
  • The refund or amount owed from your latest filed tax return
  • Bank account type, account, and routing numbers
The IRS encourages taxpayers to gather this information before they enter the portal to save time.

For Those Who Do Not File Taxes

If you do not file taxes, you can use the IRS's "Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info Here" portal to provide simple information and ensure you receive a payment.

You can use this portal if:

  • You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
  • You had a gross income that did not exceed $12,200 ($24,400 for married couples) for 2019; and
  • You did not file a return for 2018 or 2019 and were not otherwise required to file a federal income tax return for 2019.
 COVID-19 Scams and Frauds
The IRS urges taxpayers to be on the lookout for scam artists trying to use the economic impact payments as cover for schemes to steal personal information and money.

Remember, the IRS will not call, text, email or contact you on social media asking for personal or bank account information – even related to the economic impact payments. Also, watch out for emails with attachments or links claiming to have special information about economic impact payments or refunds.

Learn more about reporting suspected scams by going to the Report Phishing and Online Scams page.
 Additional Resources
Because new information on COVID-19 is coming out daily, please visit my resource page on my website for the latest updates, recommendations from the CDC, and a Frequently Asked Questions section. Additionally, visit the sites below to stay up to date.

Effective April 1st, you must stay home unless you are leaving home to perform an "essential activity." Visit the County of El Paso's website for more updates on COVID-19 and the "Stay Home, Work Safe" order. 

The CDC provides updates on the virus and safety information for the public and healthcare professionals, as well as frequently asked questions available here. 

The City of El Paso is offering a hotline for residents to call for more information regarding COVID-19. The number is 915-21-COVID, or 915-212-6843.
 
The Texas Department of State Health Services provides updates on the disease's spread within the state.

The safety of you and your loved ones is of the utmost importance. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office via email at Veronica.Escobar@mail.house.gov or by phone at 915-541-1400. 

Sincerely,
Veronica Escobar
Member of Congress
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