2nd Golden State Stimulus in California: how much will taxpayers with dependents receive?
Many in California are awaiting their fourth stimulus check and those in the care of dependents are curious if they will receive more money.
Starting today, 1 September, two-thirds of California taxpayers will begin to receive a $600 a Golden State stimulus check.
The September checks will be the second round of payments to be made and are being called GSS II. GSS II will be sent to taxpayers in the state making less than $75,000 a year. GSS I was sent after those making under $30,000 had filed their taxes.
However, those in the care of dependents are eligible to receive an additional $500 payment. These $500 payments for parents and guardians meeting the income requirements will be sent regardless of if one received a GSS I check.
The California Franchise Tax Board (CFTB), the entity tasked with distributing the checks, will send payments based on one's 2020 tax return. In order to receive a check, a tax return must be filed, regardless if a person is required or not to submit one. To receive a check, the CFTB must have a return by 15 October 2021.
Direct Deposit
The CFTB has stated that the first round of checks sent through direct deposit will be distributed between 1 September and 15 October.
Physical Check
For those who have yet to set up direct deposit with the CFTB, a physical check will be sent based on "the last 3 digits of the ZIP code on your 2020 tax return."
Physical Check Mailing Timeline
Last 3 digits of ZIP code |
Mailing timeframes |
001-065 | 10/04/2021 through 10/22/2021 |
066-221 | 10/18/2021 through 11/05/2021 |
222-302 | 11/1/2021 through 11/19/2021 |
303-543 | 11/15/2021 through 12/03/2021 |
544-709 | 11/29/2021 through 12/17/2021 |
710-998 | 12/13/2021 through 12/31/2021 |
Source: California Tax Franchise Board, 2021
Calculating your payment
The CFTB launched a handy tool, the Golden State Stimulus II Amount Estimator to help those who believe they are eligible to calculate their payment total.
The tool will ask you questions related to your tax filing status, annual income, whether you file with a Social Security Number or an Individual Tax Identification Number, and questions related to your California residency.
Can dependents receive a check themselves?
No. If another taxpayer claims you on their return, you will not be eligible to receive a check.