This week, the Economic Impact Payments provided by the CARES Act started arriving and will continue to arrive in the coming weeks. While this is good news for many, I also understand there might be issues for some receiving the payment. The IRS continues to update their website with information on what action you might need to take to receive your Economic Impact Payment. Also on their website, you will find a resource to help you track your payment status and see whether you’ll receive a direct deposit or paper check.

I’ve noticed a lot of confusion in particular regarding many of the programs and acronyms being thrown around, sonI’ve included a short summary below to help clear the air. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility for these programs please feel free to reach out on my website by clicking here, and a staff member will get back to you as soon as they can. 

Unemployment Insurance (UI): A system put into place prior to COVID-19 that creates a safety net for employees who lose their job due to no cause of their own. It’s recommended that folks file for Unemployment Insurance if they have been laid off of by their employer.

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA): PUA was established by the CARES Act to provide unemployment assistance for folks who have lost their income due to COVID-19 but do not qualify for state Unemployment Insurance. This could include people who are self-employed, independent contractors, or agricultural workers. More information on how to apply for PUA is forthcoming, but in the meantime, individuals can register for regular updates here.

Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC): Also established by the CARES Act, FPUC provides additional unemployment assistance to folks who have lost employment due to COVID-19. This program provides $600 in federal benefits each week through the end of July 2020.

Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC): This final unemployment provision established by the CARES Act allows for up to a 13-week extension of benefits to individuals who have exhausted their unemployment compensation.

Personal Recovery Rebate: This is the official name for the $1,200 “stimulus check” you may have heard folks talking about. It is also referred to as the Economic Impact Payment. Individuals with an adjusted gross income (AGI) up to $75,000 or joint filers with an AGI up to $150,000 are eligible for this rebate. An additional $500 is available for each qualifying child as well. This is determined by your 2019 or 2018 tax returns depending on when you’ve filed, and it will be distributed either through the mail or by direct deposit. This opportunity is also available for individuals who are not typically required to file a tax return. Check out the IRS website here for more information.

Under House and Senate rules, remote voting is not allowed. Given the covid-19 pandemic, some lawmakers are questioning whether the system ought to be changed.

U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford, a Republican from Jonesboro, has long believed that the system needs an overhaul.

No votes this week.