Bigger Stimulus Check File Your Tax Return Now

If you haven't filed your 2019 tax return yet, you might want to get that done ASAP. It could mean you get a larger economic stimulus check in the mail.

6 Money-Smart Ways to Spend Your Stimulus Check

Here's how you figure it all out…

To calculate the amount of your check, the IRS needs to know your tax filing status, how many "qualifying" children you have (generally, 16 years old or younger), and your adjusted gross income (AGI). If you've already filed your 2019 return, the IRS will look at that return to get the necessary information. But if you haven't filed your 2019 return when the IRS is ready to send your payment (the return isn't due until July 15 this year), they'll pull your 2018 return for the data they need.

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With that in mind, go to our Stimulus Check Calculator and answer the three questions based on information from your 2018 return. Then plug in numbers from your 2019 return (a best guess will do in a pinch). If the calculator spits out a higher estimated check amount using your 2019 information, then you want to file your 2019 return right away so that the IRS has it before they calculate your stimulus check amount.

Here's an example: Josh and Samantha were married in 2019. They quickly run the numbers for 2019 and determine that they have a combined AGI of $160,000, which is the same total AGI they had for 2018 as separate single filers. Since they have no kids and will be filing a joint return, they would get a $1,900 stimulus check based on their 2019 return. Using their separate 2018 returns, when Josh had an AGI of $100,000 and Samantha had an AGI of $60,000, Samantha would get a $1,200 check, but Josh wouldn't get anything at all because his 2018 AGI was too high. So, if they file their joint 2019 return quickly enough, they'll get an additional $700 now.

But, again, you have to move fast. The IRS could start processing checks (or direct deposits) in as little as three weeks—that's their goal—so you don't have much time.

If, however, you don't file your 2019 return in time, you'll still get your money—but you'll have to wait. The stimulus checks are actually just advanced payments of a new tax credit for the 2020 tax year. So, if you don't get the full amount you're owed now, you can claim the difference as a tax credit next year when you file your 2020 tax return. It will either result in an extra refund or reduce the amount of tax you owe. But it's better to have cash now than a tax credit later!

For more information on the economic stimulus checks, see Your 2020 Stimulus Check: How Much? When? And Other Questions Answered.

Will You Get a Bigger Stimulus Check by Waiting to File Your Tax Return?

Rocky Mengle was a Senior Tax Editor for Kiplinger from October 2018 to January 2023 with more than 20 years of experience covering federal and state tax developments. Before coming to Kiplinger, Rocky worked for Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, and Kleinrock Publishing, where he provided breaking news and guidance for CPAs, tax attorneys, and other tax professionals. He has also been quoted as an expert by USA Today, Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Reuters, Accounting Today, and other media outlets. Rocky holds a law degree from the University of Connecticut and a B.A. in History from Salisbury University.