Stimulus checks have been a large source of controversy. People have been anxiously awaiting to find out if and when they would receive another stimulus check. Things have been especially complicated for mixed-status families. During the first round, families of mixed-status were denied stimulus. This means if you were a United States Citizen married to a green card holder or an undocumented spouse, neither of you were eligible to receive a stimulus check. Originally, millions of people were excluded from receiving stimulus during this difficult time as a result of their immigration status, or their relationship to someone with different citizenship status. In fact, U.S. News states, “Some 14.4 million people in mixed-status families in total were excluded from relief as a result, including 5.1 million people who are either citizens or green card holders, according to an estimate from the nonprofit Migration Policy Institute. Broken down, that figure includes 1.4 million spouses and 3.7 million children who are citizens or legal residents.”
Recently, the United States government has passed another round of stimulus. This time, “as part of the $900 billion coronavirus relief package it passed late Monday, Congress is set to allow mixed-status households with undocumented family members to receive stimulus checks that they were denied under the first round of legislation in the spring,” states CBS.
CBS also explains that under the current stimulus bill, “Undocumented immigrants or other non-citizens who do not have Social Security numbers and file individual tax returns would still not be entitled to stimulus checks under this week’s agreement. U.S. citizen children without a parent with a Social Security number would also remain ineligible for the aid.”
The issues surrounding immigrants and families of mixed-status have been a major cause of controversy and have even lead to a number of lawsuits. Many people argue that regardless of the changes that have been made, the stimulus situation is still unfair, and not inclusive enough.
The coronavirus pandemic has been incredibly difficult for people all over the world. Many people are struggling financially, while also struggling with their physical and mental health. It is important to remember that you are not alone, and there are resources to turn to, our firm included. If you are a member of a mixed-status family, contact our firm to find out whether you and your loved ones may be eligible to receive a stimulus check and discuss how this new round of stimulus may impact you.
Contact Our New York City Immigration Lawyers
Our law firm can explain all the opportunities associated with fiancé visas and help you through the entire procedure, as well as discuss whether this is a good option. For an initial consultation with a skilled immigration lawyer, contact the Law Office of Cheryl R. David in New York.
