Most College Students Won’t Get A Stimulus Check

This may come as a surprise, but most college students won’t get a stimulus check.

Here’s what you need to know.

Stimulus Checks

Last week, the IRS started sending stimulus checks up to $1,200 to those who qualify. One constituency, however, likely won’t be receiving a stimulus check: college students. You may be wondering how this can be possible. Many college students have had their classes cancelled, their college dorms closed, and even their job offers postponed. So, why won’t most of them receive a stimulus check?

The answer: it has to do with whether the college student can be claimed as a dependent. Many taxpayers have asked: “Do my dependents get a stimulus check?” The amount of your stimulus check depends on your adjusted gross income, as indicated on your federal tax return, subject to income thresholds:

• Individuals: $1,200
• Married Couples: $2,400
• Dependent Children: $500 (must be less than 17-years-old)

Wait, your dependent has to be younger than 17-years-old? Yes. Only dependent children 16-years-old or younger are eligible to receive $500. To qualify as a dependent, the dependent must, among other requirements:

• be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;
• have a valid Social Security Number;
• be related to you by blood, marriage, or adoption; 
• be financially supported by you;
• live with you for at least half of the year; and
• be claimed as a dependent on your 2018 or 2019 federal tax return.

Most college students don’t fit this description. Most high schools juniors and seniors may not meet this criteria as well. So, even if you financially support a 17-year-old or 18-year-old, unfortunately they won’t qualify for a $500 stimulus payment.

So, can any college student get a stimulus tax payment?

Yes, so long as they are not claimed as a dependent. So, if you’re a college student, financially support yourself, and meet all other requirements, you can get a stimulus check.

Helpful Resources: Students and Graduates