Category: Client Resources

COVID-19 Updates: Consumer Protection

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Consumer Protection

From our Consumer Protection team: Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy has been working with our state, local and national partners to help the most vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Advocacy Center continues to fight for vulnerable consumers to protect them from financial exploitation. In these uncertain times, our attorneys and paralegals can help protect you and your loved ones from scammers who want to make a quick buck.

People are understandably worried about losing their jobs, income, health care and the problems that will cause with every aspect of their financial lives from their ability to pay bills to the effect the crisis will have on their health and credit.  There are several bills working their way through Congress now to provide relief to consumers. As we get new information about new consumer legislation protecting and providing for consumers, we’ll post it here.

In the meantime, be cautious when dealing with people who promise something that sounds too good to be true. Some things to watch out for:

  1. Price gouging: From bare shelves to outrageous prices for basic products, people are trying to make a quick buck from the coronavirus crisis. If you think a merchant is price gouging, report the business to the N.C. Attorney General’s office. They can investigate and shut down any scammers, if necessary.
  2. Phony cures: Scammers promise to sell you a product or service that will prevent or cure the coronavirus, or, offer to sell you a product they don’t have.
  3. Fake charities: Say they will donate to affected communities, but will pocket the money instead.
  4. Door-to-door sales: Be cautious of anyone who comes to your door offering to sell you something. Don’t sign anything presented to you by someone that contacts you first. Take your time to read any paperwork and let someone else review any document before you sign it.
  5. Bogus “official communications” emails from government agencies: These emails could say they are from federal and state governments, Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). These emails will have the look and feel of an official memo, and purport to contain “important information” or maps relating to the COVID-19 outbreak, in an attachment; or other calls to action that involve opening a file or clicking on a link.  Instead, the files or links lead to key-loggers, bogus web sites that try to capture personal information, or ransomware.
  6. “Coronavirus Tracker” Apps: These appear as an ad or link for a free download of a mobile app that claims to provide real-time updates of COVID-19 outbreaks, mapped against your location.  But instead of an app, the download contains a ransomware payload.

And, remember, if you fall behind on your mortgage, rent or other bills, there may be some relief available to you. To learn more, view our Home Preservation updates page. Contact Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy’s Consumer Protection Program if you think you are being taken advantage of or need information about a consumer matter.

Student Loan Payments Deferred:  (January 21) The Biden administration announced that student loan payments can be paused until September 30th, 2021 with no accrued interest if the borrower will call and make a request from their loan servicer. Those who still want to make their payments can do so. These payments would apply directly to the principal balance, which may allow some borrowers to pay off their loan more quickly. Read more.

BACK TO COVID-19 UPDATES PAGE

Unemployed or working fewer hours during COVID-19? 5 things to consider

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Many people are trying to figure out what their options are after losing their jobs or having work hours reduced during COVID-19. Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy is here to help. Contact us if you need assistance figuring out your options. Here are 5 ways we can help you and your family remain stable: 

1.  Unemployment Benefits:

  • You should apply for unemployment benefits right away. You can apply online at des.nc.gov or by calling 1-888-737-0259. If you cannot get through, keep trying and document your attempts.
  • Remember to fill out the weekly certifications online at des.nc.gov or by calling 1-888-372-3453 every week, even if your application has not been approved yet or you have been disqualified for benefits and have filed an appeal.
  • If you are self-employed, haven’t worked recently, or you are applying for or receiving disability benefits you may be eligible for unemployment benefits if you are out of work or unable to work due to COVID-19. This includes parents who must stay home because their children are out of school.
  • During this emergency, the amount of unemployment benefits has been increased by $600 per week through July 31, 2020. You can also receive the benefits for more weeks.
  • Immigrants with work authorization may be eligible for unemployment benefits. Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants are not eligible.

2.  Stimulus Payments:

  • Most people should get a stimulus payment from the IRS of $1,200 for each adult and $500 for each child under age 17. You can get this payment even if you are not required to file a tax return.
     
  • You must be authorized to work in the U.S. to be eligible for these payments, typically this means you have a SSN that’s valid for employment. Unfortunately, this means many immigrants may not be eligible for a stimulus payment.
     
  • If you have not received your payment, call Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy’s Taxpayer Clinic hotline at 980-202-7329. 

3. Evictions, Foreclosures, Utility Cut-Offs and Student Loan payments

  • You cannot be evicted by your landlord or have your house foreclosed until after a court hearing. Those court hearings are on hold at least until June 2020.
  • If you have a federally backed mortgage loan such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, VA, USDA, FHA or Home Equity Conversion mortgage (“Reverse mortgage”), you may be entitled to two 180-day forbearances on your mortgage payments without late fees being added.
  • Utilities, including electric, gas, and water services are prohibited from disconnection for customers unable to pay during the COVID-19 pandemic and from collecting fees, penalties, or interest for late payments until June. Residential customers have at least six months to pay outstanding bills.
  • Certain student loans may be entitled to have their payments suspended through September 2020.
  • Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy or Legal Aid may be able to help you prevent eviction, foreclosure, or utility cut-off. Call us at 704-376-1600.

4. Health Care Coverage:

  • You and your children may now be eligible for Medicaid. 
  • If you cannot get Medicaid, you may be able to enroll in Obamacare/Marketplace coverage with financial assistance if you recently lost your health coverage or had a change in circumstances. You have 60 days after losing your coverage or the change to enroll.
  • If you are already enrolled in Obamacare/Marketplace and cannot pay your premiums, you may qualify for lower premiums.
  • Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy’s Health Insurance Navigator Project can help you find the best and most affordable coverage options for you and your family. We can help you complete an application, update your Obamacare/Marketplace coverage, or answer general health insurance questions. We can also help if you get denied for coverage or services. Call 980-256-3782 to schedule a free, over the phone appointment today!

5. Food Assistance:

  • You may be eligible for food stamps. The amount of food stamp benefits has been increased and time limits/work requirements for some people have been waived during the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy can help you apply for food stamps over the phone. We can also help if you get denied. Our help is free. Call us at 980-256-3782.
  • Even families not eligible for food stamps will receive an EBT card in the mail to use to buy food if their children qualify for free and reduced lunch at school. Your immigration status does not matter. If you do not get this card, call us at 704-376-1600.
  • Families with no income can also get cash assistance for their children from Social Services under the Work First program. The amount of Work First benefits have been increased and work requirements waived during the pandemic. 

    Apply by phone by calling Social Services at 704-336-3000. If you get denied or cannot apply, call us at 704 376-1600.

COVID-19 Unemployment Insurance and Immigration

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Eligibility for Unemployment Insurance Benefits based on Immigration Status

Undocumented workers are not eligible for North Carolina unemployment insurance benefits.

In general, workers must have valid work authorization during the base period used to determine the benefit amount, at the time they apply, and through the entire period they are receiving benefits.

Unemployment Benefits and Public Charge

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security does not list unemployment insurance benefits as public benefits in public charge determinations.

Self-Employed and Independent Contract Workers

Self-employed, independent contractors, gig workers and others who did not traditionally qualify for North Carolina unemployment insurance and were receiving unemployment benefits through Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC) will no longer be eligible for unemployment after September 4, 2021. Find updates on the program here.

Please note there is a special hotline for PUA applicants, 866-847-7209. 
PUA applicants can also call during additional special hours on Sundays from 12 – 5 p.m.

Where can I receive additional information?

Visit the DES COVID-19 help page for more information.

Protect Yourself From Coronavirus Scams

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Scammers are always looking to take advantage of unsuspecting victims, especially in times of uncertainty. The more you and loved ones know about scams, the easier it is to spot and avoid them.

Download these tips for protecting yourself from coronavirus scams.

Beware of Price Gouging 

North Carolina is under a State of Emergency and price gouging laws are in effect:

  • It is illegal to charge excessive prices during an emergency.  A price may be unreasonable if it exceeds the average price for the product or service during the preceding 60 days.
  • Contact NC Attorney General’s Office 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or file an online complaint

Tips to Avoid Scammers and Fraudsters

  • Be aware of COVID-19 vaccine scams. Everyone who wants a vaccine can have one and the vaccine will be free for most people. Learn more about COVID scams here.
  • Don’t answer or hang up on Robo-calls.  Scammers are using robo-calls to pitch fake products, work-from-home schemes and insurance scams.  Try to avoid answering the call at all – if it is someone you know they will leave you a voicemail. 
  • Avoid false utility company representatives: Scammers are calling to dupe people out of their cash and personal information by convincing them their utilities will be shut off if they don’t pay. If you get a call from someone claiming to be your utility company, firmly tell them you will contact the utility company directly using the number on your bill or on the company’s website. Even if the caller insists you have a past due bill or your services will be shut off, never give banking information over the phone unless you place the call to a number you know is legitimate. Utility companies neither demand banking information by email or phone nor demand payment by gift cards (like iTunes or Amazon), cash reload cards (like MoneyPak, Vanilla, or Reloadit), or cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin), these are scams.
  • Avoid foreclosure rescue and “we buy homes” scams.  Scammers search public records for homeowners in danger of property tax, mortgage, and HOA foreclosure.   Never sign paperwork on the spot.  Scammers often try to trick homeowners into signing away ownership by signing a deed or other legal documents without disclosing the true nature of the transaction.
  • Be on the alert for Debt-Relief Scams. Avoid companies or out-of-state lawyers that offer to help. Under North Carolina law, it is illegal to collect upfront fees for debt settlement services.  Often these companies do nothing but put you further in debt and damage your credit.
  • Don’t pay someone in advance to help you access benefits.  The government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get the stimulus money. No fees. No charges. No nothing.  See our April 19 post about stimulus payments.
  • Avoid Social Security scams. The government will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number. Anyone who does is a scammer.  Don’t “verify” your number or be scared into thinking your benefits are about to be suspended.
  • Watch out for phishing emails and texts about the coronavirus that appear to be from health officials, experts, or anyone else. Don’t open messages, click on links, or download attachments from senders you don’t recognize.
  • Be cautious of offers to help get groceries, do errands ​– there are a number of good Samaritans, but unfortunately there have also been reports of scams, money given, nothing delivered.
  • ​Beware of “person in need” and grandparent scams. Scammers pose as a grandchild, friend or relative stranded or otherwise in trouble and need money quickly and quietly.  They may ask for money by mail or gift card.  Don’t be pressured, hang up and call another relative or friend if you are still concerned to help you investigate.
  • Be careful before you donate to a COVID-related charity​.  Check legitimacy through the North Carolina Secretary of State, Charity Watch, or Charity Navigator.
  • Be cautious of any unsolicited door-to-door sales pitch or offers.  Don’t sign or agree to anything on the spot – if an offer seems too good to be true it probably is. 

Still have questions or need help? Contact Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy’s Consumer Protection Program for more information, 704-376-1600.  Stay safe everyone!

Additional Resources

Read more information and report scams through the links below and pass it on: 

Federal Trade Commission scam page  
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau   
N.C. Department of Justice Consumer Complaints   
National Center for Disaster Fraud​

Information about the CARES Act Economic Impact Payments (Stimulus Checks)

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Updated March 11, 2021. Originally posted April 6, 2020

IMPORTANT Notice: 

On March 11th, 2021 President Biden signed a the American Rescue Plan that included additional $1400 stimulus checks per eligible individual.

Learn more about the third payments and the American Rescue Plan here.

If you have questions about your stimulus payments, contact Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy by calling 980-202-7329.

Many people anticipate receiving the CARES Act’s Economic Impact Payments (Stimulus Checks). Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy wants to make sure you have the information you need to know what to expect and how to get your payment.

Need help?
Book An Initial Consultation
Request a Callback
Call Us at 980-202-7329

Anyone in need of other assistance from Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy can contact us by calling 704-376-1600 (Mecklenburg County), 800-438-1254 (Outside Mecklenburg County) or 800-247-1931 (Linea de Español).

Who is eligible for the payment?

Tax filers with adjusted gross income up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns will receive the full payment.

For filers with income above those amounts, the payment amount is reduced by $5 for each $100 above the $75,000/$150,000 thresholds. Single filers with income exceeding $80,000 and $160,000 for joint filers with no children are not eligible. 

Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for either 2020 or 2019 will automatically receive an economic impact payment of up to $1,400 for individuals or $2,800 for married couples. Households also receive $1400 for each qualifying dependent. 

Will the IRS take my payment if I have outstanding IRS debts, federal student loans or other government debts?

No. As with second-round checks, third stimulus checks will not be reduced to pay child support arrears either. 

How will the IRS calculate my payment?

The American Rescue Plan provides that if your 2020 tax return is not filed and processed by the time the IRS starts processing your third stimulus payment, the tax agency will use information from your 2019 tax return. If your 2020 return is already filed and processed when the IRS is ready to send your payment, then your stimulus check eligibility and amount will be based on information from your 2020 return.  

If your 2020 return is filed and/or processed after the IRS sends you a stimulus check, but before July 15, 2021 (or September 1 if the April 15 filing deadline is pushed back), the IRS will send you a second payment for the difference between what your payment should have been if based on your 2020 return and the payment sent based on your 2019 return. 

Most people do not need to take any action. The IRS will calculate and automatically send the payment to those eligible. 

How will the IRS know where to send my payment?

The economic impact payment will be deposited directly into the same banking account reflected on your tax return filed. 

The IRS does not have my direct deposit information. What can I do?

The IRS has an online portal, Get My Payment, for individuals to:

  • Check their payment status
  • Confirm their payment type: direct deposit or check
  • Enter their bank account information for direct deposit if the IRS doesn’t have their direct deposit information and the IRS hasn’t sent their payment yet

How to use Get My Payment

Taxpayers only need a few pieces of information to quickly obtain the status of their payment and, where needed, provide their bank account information. Having a copy of their most recent tax return can help speed the process.

For taxpayers to track the status of their payment, this feature will show taxpayers the payment amount, scheduled delivery date by direct deposit or paper check and if a payment hasn’t been scheduled. They will need to enter basic information including:

  • Social Security number
  • Date of birth, and
  • Mailing address used on their tax return.

Taxpayers needing to add their bank account information to speed receipt of their payment will also need to provide the following additional information:

  • Their Adjusted Gross Income from their most recent tax return submitted, either 2020 or 2019
  • The refund or amount owed from their latest filed tax return
  • Bank account type, account and routing numbers

Get My Payment cannot update bank account information after an Economic Impact Payment has been scheduled for delivery. To help protect against potential fraud, the tool also does not allow people to change bank account information already on file with the IRS. 

Is providing bank account information to the IRS when paying your tax filing liability good enough?

No, people who paid electronically are going to have to input deposit account information. Go to Get My Payment.

When will payments begin?

Taxpayers with direct deposit information on file with the IRS should see their payment in their bank accounts beginning the week of March 15, 2021, while others might have to wait up to five months to receive paper checks or pre-payed debit cards. 

What about taxpayers who don’t have bank accounts?

The U.S. Treasury Department and the IRS are working with digital companies and prepaid debit card providers to ensure there are other avenues for those taxpayers get their money quickly. 

I receive SS/VA benefits and/or I am not typically required to file a tax return. Can I still receive my payment?

Yes. Individuals who receive Social Security benefits (Social Security retirement, disability income (SSDI), supplemental income (SSI) or Survivors Benefits) or Veterans Affairs benefits (disability compensation, pension or survivors benefits) who didn’t file tax returns in 2020 or 2019 won’t need to file tax returns to receive their payments. 

They should receive the additional money just as they would their Social Security or VA benefits. The IRS will use the information provided by the Social Security Administration/VA OR the information you provided with the IRS’ Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info to generate the $1,400 Economic Impact Payments. Recipients will get their payment as a direct deposit or by paper check, just as they normally would.

I am not typically required to file a tax return because I am low-income. Can I still receive my payment?

Yes. The IRS will use information you provided in the IRS’ Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info to send you your stimulus payment.

I have not filed my tax return for 2019 or 2020. Can I still receive a payment?

Yes. The IRS urges anyone with a tax filing obligation who has not yet filed a tax return for 2019 or 2020 to file as soon as they can to receive a payment. Taxpayers should include direct deposit banking information on the return. Visit IRS Free File

If I receive SSI or a VA pension will my payment be considered income?

Please note that the Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs will not consider the payments as income, and the payments are excluded from resources for 12 months.

What about taxpayers with Individual Tax Identification Numbers (ITINs)?

Immigrants with ITINs are not eligible for the $1,200 payments. 

What about mixed-status families (SSN valid for employment and ITIN on the same tax return)?

You are eligible for a second stimulus payment for yourself and any dependents you claimed who also have Social Security numbers valid for employment, but not for your spouse. (Mixed-status families who did not receive the first stimulus payment due to the previous restrictions on spouses of people filing with ITINs will now be eligible to get that payment retroactively when they file their 2020 tax return. Read more here.)

I need to file a tax return. How long are payments available?

For those concerned about visiting a tax professional or local community organization in person to get help with a tax return, these economic impact payments will be available throughout the rest of 2021.

Does someone who has died qualify for the payment?

No. A payment made to someone who died before receipt of the payment should be returned to the IRS by following the instructions for repayments. Return the entire payment unless the payment was made to joint filers and one spouse had not died before receipt of the payment, in which case, you only need to return the portion of the payment made on account of the decedent. This amount will be $1,400 unless adjusted gross income exceeded $150,000.

Does someone who is incarcerated qualify for the payment?

Yes. They can claim the payment by filing a simple 2020 tax return. Read more here.

What should I do to return a payment?

You should return the payment as described below.

If the payment was a paper check:

  • Write “Void” in the endorsement section on the back of the check.
  • Mail the voided Treasury check immediately to the appropriate IRS location listed below.
  • Don’t staple, bend, or paper clip the check.
  • Include a note stating the reason for returning the check.

If the payment was a paper check and you have cashed it, or if the payment was a direct deposit:

  • Submit a personal check, money order, etc., immediately to the appropriate IRS location listed below.
  • Write on the check/money order made payable to “U.S. Treasury” and write 2020EIP, and the taxpayer identification number (social security number,  or individual taxpayer identification number) of the recipient of the check.
  • Include a brief explanation of the reason for returning the payment

What if my spouse or ex-spouse took my payment in 2020?

If so, you may be able to claim your economic impact payment (EIP) as a credit or refund on your 2020 federal tax return.

In many abusive relationships the abuser controls the household’s money and finances. Although the survivor may have agreed to the filing of the tax return that the COVID relief payment was based upon, the abuser may have later refused to pay over the survivor’s share of the payment or the survivor cannot get the payment from the abuser without risking harm or abuse. In other situations, survivors may not have seen or signed the tax return that the COVID relief payment was based upon, or they were forced to sign the return under threats or duress.

IRS procedures outline a path for relief for survivors who believe their COVID relief payments were issued based on a tax return that was fraudulent, forged, or signed by the survivor under duress.

Unfortunately, the IRS has not created procedures for allowing a survivor to receive the Recovery Rebate Credit when both spouses agreed to file a married-filing-joint return, but the abusive spouse refused to pay over the survivor’s share of the COVID relief payment. Advocates for survivors of domestic violence have been working on this issue and continue to do so in an effort to find relief for survivors in this situation.

Follow these steps to receive your payment and get help

Where can I get more information?

The IRS will post all key information on IRS.gov/coronavirus as soon as it becomes available.

The IRS has a reduced staff in many of its offices but remains committed to helping eligible individuals receive their payments expeditiously. Check for updated information on IRS.gov/coronavirus rather than calling IRS assisters who are helping process 2020 returns.

Información sobre Pagos de Impacto Económico de la Ley CARES

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Read in English
Muchas personas anticipan recibir los Pagos de Impacto Económico de la Ley CARES (por sus siglas en ingles). El Centro de Apoyo Legal de Charlotte quiere asegurarse de que las personas tenga la información que necesita para saber qué esperar y cómo obtener su pago.

Cualquier persona con preguntas adicionales sobre cómo obtener su pago puede comunicarse con nuestra Clínica de Impuestos para contribuyentes de bajos ingresos de Carolina del Norte llamando al 980-202-7329 o completando una solicitud de asistencia en línea.

Cualquier persona que necesite otra ayuda del El Centro de Apoyo Legal de Charlotte puede contactarnos llamando al 704-376-1600 (Condado de Mecklenburg), 800-438-1254 (Fuera del Condado de Mecklenburg) o al 800-247-1931 (Línea de Español).

¿Quién es elegible para el pago?

Los contribuyentes con ingresos brutos ajustados de hasta $ 75,000 para individuos y hasta $ 150,000 para parejas casadas que presenten declaraciones conjuntas recibirán el pago completo.

Para los declarantes con ingresos superiores a esos montos, el monto del pago se reduce en $ 5 por cada $ 100 por encima de los umbrales de $ 75,000 / $ 150,000. Los declarantes solteros con ingresos superiores a $ 99,000 y $ 198,000 para declarantes conjuntos sin hijos no son elegibles.

Los contribuyentes elegibles que presentaron declaraciones de impuestos para 2019 o 2018 recibirán automáticamente un pago de impacto económico de hasta $ 1,200 para individuos o $ 2,400 para parejas casadas. Los padres también reciben $ 500 por cada niño calificado.

¿El IRS tomará mi pago si tengo deudas pendientes del IRS, préstamos estudiantiles federales u otras deudas del gobierno?

No, pero el IRS tomará su pago en la medida necesaria para pagar las obligaciones de manutención infantil pendientes.

¿Cómo calculará el IRS mi pago?

Para las personas que ya presentaron sus declaraciones de impuestos de 2019, el IRS utilizará esta información para calcular el monto del pago. Para aquellos que aún no han presentado su declaración de impuestos para 2019, el IRS utilizará la información de su declaración de impuestos de 2018 para calcular el pago.

La mayoría de las personas no necesitan tomar ninguna medida. El IRS calculará y enviará automáticamente el pago a los elegibles.

¿Cómo sabrá el IRS dónde enviar mi pago?

El pago de impacto económico se depositará directamente en la misma cuenta bancaria reflejada en su declaración de impuestos presentada.

El IRS no tiene mi información de depósito directo. ¿Que puedo hacer?

En las próximas semanas, el Departamento del Tesoro de los EE. UU. Planea desarrollar un portal en línea para que las personas proporcionen su información bancaria al IRS en línea para que las personas puedan recibir pagos de inmediato en lugar de cheques por correo.

Esos contribuyentes podrían obtener sus pagos más rápidamente al proporcionar su información de depósito directo al IRS en una nueva aplicación que está en proceso. Esta aplicación será como la popular aplicación de la temporada de presentación “¿Dónde está mi reembolso?” Le permitirá a los contribuyentes ver dónde están sus fondos bajo esta nueva ley. El nuevo portal estará disponible pronto.

¿Cuándo comenzarán los pagos?

Los contribuyentes con información de depósito directo en el archivo del IRS deben ver su pago en sus cuentas bancarias a partir de la semana del 13 de abril, mientras que otros tendrán que esperar hasta cinco meses para recibir cheques en papel.

Los primeros cheques deben ir a los 60 millones de contribuyentes con información de depósito directo de sus declaraciones de impuestos de 2018 o 2019 en el archivo del IRS. Después de eso, a partir de la primera semana de mayo, el IRS emitirá aproximadamente 5 millones de cheques en papel por semana a hasta 100 millones de personas que no tienen información de depósito directo en el archivo, en un proceso que podría tomar hasta 20 semanas para completar.

¿Qué pasa con los contribuyentes que no tienen cuentas bancarias?

El Departamento del Tesoro de los EE. UU. Y el IRS están trabajando con compañías digitales y proveedores de tarjetas de débito prepagas para garantizar que haya otras vías para que los contribuyentes obtengan su dinero rápidamente.

Normalmente no estoy obligado a presentar una declaración de impuestos. ¿Todavía puedo recibir mi pago?

Si. Las personas que reciben beneficios de jubilación, discapacidad o sobrevivientes del Seguro Social que no presentan declaraciones de impuestos no necesitarán presentar declaraciones para recibir sus cheques.

Deberían recibir el dinero adicional tal como lo harían con sus beneficios del Seguro Social. El IRS utilizará la información en el Formulario SSA-1099 y el Formulario RRB-1099 para generar $ 1,200 Pagos de Impacto Económico a los destinatarios del Seguro Social que no presentaron declaraciones de impuestos en 2018 o 2019. Los destinatarios recibirán estos pagos como depósito directo o en papel verificar, tal como normalmente recibirían sus beneficios.

SIN EMBARGO: Algunos contribuyentes de bajos ingresos, personas mayores y personas con discapacidades que reciben Ingresos de Seguridad Suplementarios (SSI) y veteranos que reciben compensación y / o pensiones por discapacidad del VA que de otra manera no están obligados a presentar una declaración de impuestos deberán presentar una declaración simple para obteer su pago. IRS.gov/coronavirus pronto proporcionará información para instruir a las personas de estos grupos sobre cómo presentar una declaración de impuestos de 2019 con información simple, pero necesaria, que incluye su estado civil, el número de dependientes y la información de la cuenta bancaria de depósito directo.

El 4 de abril, TurboTax presentó un portal en línea donde los estadounidenses de bajos ingresos que no presentan una declaración de impuestos pueden enviar su información al IRS para recibir su pago de estímulo lo antes posible. Los no declarantes pueden proporcionar sus datos de depósito directo o dirección de correo y elegir cómo desean recibir su cheque de estímulo.

No he presentado mi declaración de impuestos para 2018 o 2019. ¿Todavía puedo recibir un pago?

Si. El IRS insta a cualquier persona con una obligación de presentar una declaración de impuestos que aún no haya presentado una declaración de impuestos para 2018 o 2019 a presentarla tan pronto como les sea posible para recibir un pago. Los contribuyentes deben incluir información bancaria de depósito directo en la declaración.

Si recibo SSI, ¿mi pago se considerará ingreso?

Tenga en cuenta que la Administración del Seguro Social no considerará los pagos como ingresos para los beneficiarios de SSI, y los pagos están excluidos de los recursos durante 12 meses.

¿Qué pasa con los contribuyentes con números de identificación fiscal individual (ITIN)?

Los inmigrantes con ITIN no son elegibles para los pagos de $ 1,200.

¿Qué pasa con las familias de estatus mixto (SSN válido para empleo e ITIN en la misma declaración de impuestos)?

Si un esposo, esposa o cualquier dependiente reclamado tiene un ITIN en lugar de un Número de Seguro Social, ningún miembro de la familia recibirá el pago (Excepción para aquellos que prestan servicios en los Servicios Armados).

Por supuesto, la pareja podría dejar a sus dependientes con ITIN fuera de su declaración de impuestos. Y presentar una declaración por separado puede ser una opción, sin embargo, la pareja puede perder otros créditos reembolsables, como el Crédito Tributario Adicional por Hijo y los créditos educativos, si lo hacen.

Necesito presentar una declaración de impuestos. ¿Durante cuánto tiempo están disponibles los pagos?

Para aquellos preocupados por visitar en persona a un profesional de impuestos u organización comunitaria local para obtener ayuda con una declaración de impuestos, estos pagos de impacto económico estarán disponibles durante el resto de 2020.

¿Dónde puedo obtener más información?

El IRS publicará toda la información clave en IRS.gov/coronavirus tan pronto como esté disponible.

El IRS tiene un personal reducido en muchas de sus oficinas, pero sigue comprometido a ayudar a las personas elegibles a recibir sus pagos rápidamente. Busque información actualizada en IRS.gov/coronavirus en lugar de llamar a los asistentes del IRS que están ayudando a procesar las devoluciones de 2019.

COVID-19 Relief for N.C. Homeowners

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From Nicholas Holt, paralegal-advocate, and Leah Kane, senior attorney, of the Consumer Protection Program:

Download these tips (English)

In general, North Carolina homeowners are still required to make their contractual monthly mortgage payments during the COVID-19 crisis and their regular property tax and homeowner association (HOA) assessments.  However, there are a variety of ways a homeowner may be entitled to relief or assistance:

All North Carolina Mortgage, Property Tax and HOA foreclosure court hearings postponed:

  • All N.C. foreclosure court hearings (Special Proceedings or Superior Court) are continued for 30 days, until April 17, or later pursuant to a N.C. Supreme Court Order. If you have a pending foreclosure, you should receive a notice in the mail about the new court date. Open all mail and be sure to attend the next hearing.
  • FHA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac, USDA, and HECM reverse mortgages have suspended foreclosures for 60 days, generally through May 17, 2020.  VA-backed mortgages may also comply with this moratorium.  Contact your mortgage servicer about specifics and to learn whether your loan is federally backed.
  • Based on the current N.C. Supreme Court directives in place, if a foreclosure hearing is held after April 15 but before May 17, the clerk will need some evidence at the foreclosure hearing that the loan is not subject to the 60-day federal moratorium before authorizing any sale.
  • N.C. court filing and case action deadlines extended in many situations. The N.C. Supreme Court Ordered that documents and papers due to be filed, or actions required to be done, in a case on or after March 16, 2020 shall be timely filed if done by close of business on April 17, 2020. 
  • Because of the Order extending case deadlines, any foreclosure sale that had not finalized before March 16 will be held open for upset bids through April 17, 2020.  It also appears that a homeowner may be able to file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy to stop the foreclosure during this time period. 
  • Foreclosure sales based upon a prior order are not prohibited by the N.C. Supreme Court Order but may be affected by the federal moratorium if the loan is a qualified federal loan (see below).
  • Although most Mecklenburg County civil court hearings on foreclosures will be postponed, the clerk’s office is currently open for filing between 9 a.m. and noon on weekdays.  Please exercise caution and do not enter the courthouse if you are experiencing symptoms of illness.

Determine whether your mortgage is federally backed or a private loan to learn about specific relief:

  • Most federally backed mortgages, which include FHA (HUD), HECM reverse mortgages, VA loans, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHFA, and USDA have suspended foreclosures and evictions of borrowers after foreclosure until May 17, 2020.
  • If you are going to face hardship because of a job loss or otherwise during the COVID-19 crisis, contact your mortgage servicer about specific relief available, even if not federally backed. 

    Many private mortgage lenders will likely be offering assistance during this time.  For both federal and private loans this may include:
    • Forbearance and payment relief programs (application and supporting documentation typically required);
    • Suspension of negative reporting to credit bureaus;
    • Waivers of penalties and late fees;  
    • Mortgage modifications to reduce interest rates and monthly payments;
    • Needs assessment and personal recovery plan;
  • Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, along with statewide and national consumer organizations, continues to monitor changes in this area and will share updates as they come in.

2020 Census: Get Counted, Hazte Contar

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The 2020 Census is coming. Find out what you need to know to get counted.

Se acerca el Censo 2020. Aprenda lo que necesita saber para ser contado.

Download our Get Counted flyer in English and Español

What is the Census? | ¿Qué es el censo?

The census is a count taken every 10 years of every person in the United States.

El censo es un recuento realizado cada 10 años de cada persona en los Estados Unidos. Es realizado por la oficina del Censo de EE. UU.

What will I be asked? | ¿Qué se preguntará?

  • How many people are living or staying at your home.
  • Whether the home is owned or rented.
  • The sex, age, name and race of each person in the home.
  • Whether the person in our home is of Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin.
  • The relationship of each person in your home.

You will NOT be asked about your citizenship status.

  • Cuántas personas viven o se quedan en su casa.
  • Si la casa es propiedad privada o está alquilada.
  • El sexo, edad, nombre y raza de cada persona en el hogar.
  • Si alguien en su casa es de origen hispano, latino o español.
  • La relación de cada persona en su hogar.

No se le preguntará sobre su estado de ciudadanía.

Why participate? | ¿Por qué participar?

Funding for Roads, Schools, Services: The U.S. Government distributes billions in federal funds each year based on census data.

Planning for the Future: Local organizations and businesses use census data to plan for the future of our community.

Political Representation: Our number of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives is based on census data. N.C. stands to gain a seat based on the 2020 Census count. Population data from the census also informs how state and federal districts are drawn.

Financiamiento para carreteras, escuelas, servicios: el gobierno de los EE. UU. Distribuye miles de millones de dólares en fondos federales cada año en función de los datos del censo.

Planificación para el futuro: Las organizaciones y empresas locales utilizan los datos del censo para planificar el futuro de nuestra comunidad.

Representación política: nuestro número de escaños en la Cámara de Representantes de EE. UU. Se basa en datos del censo, y Carolina del Norte puede ganar un escaño en función del recuento del censo de 2020. Los
datos de población del censo también informan cómo se definen los distritos estatales y federales.

What to expect | Cómo es el Proceso

March 12 – 20

You should receive official Census Bureau mail explaining how to respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or by mail by April 1.

April 1

The official day of the count. Every home will receive an invitation to participate by mail. You can respond for everyone in your home in one of three ways: online, by phone, or by mail. When you respond, you’ll tell the Census Bureau where you and members of your household (including children) live as of April 1, 2020.

April

Census takers begin visiting college students living on campus, people living in senior centers, and others who live among large groups of people. Census takers also begin conducting quality check interviews to help ensure an accurate count.

May – July

Census takers will visit homes that haven’t responded to the 2020 Census to help make sure everyone is counted.

Del 12 al 20 de marzo

Recibirá un correo oficial de la Oficina del Censo que explique cómo responder al Censo 2020 en línea, por teléfono o por correo antes del 1 de abril.

1 de abril

El día oficial del conteo. Cada hogar recibirá una invitación para participar por correo. podrá responder por todos los miembros de su casa de tres maneras: en línea, por teléfono o por correo. Cuando responda, debe hacerlo con
la información de todas las personas (incluyendo niños) que vivan en esa residencia el 1 de abril de 2020. EL censo es por dirección de residencia, no por grupo familiar.

Abril

Los encuestadores comienzan a visitar estudiantes universitarios que viven en el campus, personas que viven en centros para personas mayores y otros que viven entre grandes grupos de personas. Los encuestadores del censo también comienzan a realizar entrevistas de control de calidad para ayudar a garantizar un recuento preciso.

Mayo – Julio

Los encuestadores del censo visitarán hogares que no han respondido al Censo 2020 para ayudar a asegurar que todos sean contados.

Keep in mind | Tenga en cuenta

Your information is sensitive and yours to share: The law is very clear that census responses must remain confidential and cannot be used against individuals in any way. However, census data has been misused in the past. Every family should consider the benefits and the potential risk. Get the facts and decide what is best for your situation.

Su información es confidencial y segura para compartir: la ley es muy clara en cuanto a que las respuestas del censo deben permanecer confidenciales y no pueden utilizarse en contra de las personas de ninguna manera. Sin embargo, los datos del censo han sido mal utilizados en el pasado. Cada familia debe considerar los beneficios y el potencial de riesgo. Por este motivo informese y averigue todos hechos reales acerca del Censo y como puede beneficiarle y decida lo mejor para su familia.

Protect yourself from possible scams: Be aware of anyone who comes to your door or contacts you claiming to be a census taker. Ask to see appropriate identification and make sure addresses on documents match the official address of the U.S. Census Bureau. Census takers will not come to your home if you have already participated in the census online, by phone or by mail.

Protéjase de posibles estafas: preste atención a cualquier persona que se acerque a su puerta o se contacte con usted alegando ser un encuestador. Pida ver la identificación apropiada y asegúrese de que las direcciones en los documentos coincidan con la dirección oficial de la Oficina del Censo de los EE. UU. Los censistas no irán a su hogar si ya participó en el censo en línea, por teléfono o por correo.

Look for: | Este atento de:

  • a government ID card with the person’s name, photo, Department of Commerce watermark and expiration date.
  • an official bag with laptop or smart phone featuring the U.S. Census Bureau logo.
  • field representatives visiting homes between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
  • representatives at local organizations and events with a computer to help people respond to the census online.

  • una tarjeta de identificación del gobierno con el nombre de la persona, foto, logo y marca de agua del departamento de Comercio y fecha de caducidad.
  • un maletín oficial con un computador portátil o teléfono inteligente con el logo del censo de EE. UU.
  • representantes de campo que visitan hogares solo pueden hacerlo entre las 9 a.m. y las 9 p.m.
  • representantes en organizaciones locales y eventos con una computadora para ayudar la gente responde al censo en línea.

A census worker will never: | Un trabajador del censo nunca le pedirá:

  • ask to enter your home.
  • ask for your Social Security Number.
  • ask for money or bank account information.
  • ask if you are a Democrat or Republican.
  • threaten to send you to jail for refusing to answer questions.
  • entrar a su casa.
  • su número de Seguro Social.
  • dinero o información de su cuenta bancaria o tarjetas de credito
  • preguntarle si es demócrata o Republicano
  • amenazar con enviarlo a la cárcel por negarse a responder preguntas.

Still have questions? Visit MeckCounts2020.com or 2020census.gov to learn more.

¿Aún tienes preguntas? Visite MeckCounts2020.com o 2020census.gov para obtener más información.



Protecting Seniors from Fraud and Scams

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Seniors are at high risk of being targeted by scams due to increased health needs and accumulated assets, savings, or income.

Learn about the types of scams that target seniors to protect yourself, your loved ones and your neighbors from becoming victims.

Types of Scams

  • Government Agency Scams:
    Scammers call demanding personal or financial information claiming to be government agencies like Social Security, Medicare, or the IRS

    Technological advances allow scammers to “spoof” numbers to look like they are calling from a particular location.
  • While scams can occur year-round, scammers take advantage of important deadlines such as:
    – Tax Season
    – Open Enrollment
    – Issuing new Medicare cards

Why are these scams so common?

Large government programs have complicated rules and procedures. Seniors fear getting in trouble and losing benefits they need to remain stable.

Medicare Scams

Nearly all seniors receive Medicare and rely on it for crucial health care.

Medicare is an entitlement – meaning you must receive written, timely notice before any changes are made to your benefits.

Medicare will NEVER call you and demand immediate payment. Everything is done on paper or in-person

Scammers are working 24/7, but they are particularly active in the fall during Medicare Open Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7).

Common Schemes include:

  • Door to Door Agents
    • Agents often cold call or go door-to-door promising the best Advantage plans
    • The agents may not be legitimate or may offer plans that fail to meet your needs (e.g. Does the plan include your providers/networks?)
    • Medicare Imposters
    • Individuals calling from Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services asking for personal information.
  • Health Care Agencies
    • Salespersons from medical equipment companies or home health agencies promising free equipment or services

Tips to protect yourself:

  • NEVER give out your private information over the phone (including partial information like last 4 digits of your Social Security Number).
    • If you have an ongoing case with Social Security or Medicare, demand written notice and asks for an option to discuss the issue in-person
    • Your new Medicare Number should still be protected!
  • NEVER sign blank forms for insurance, services, or medical equipment.
  • ALWAYS review quarterly Medicare notices and report fraudulent activity.
  • ALWAYS use a reliable source to renew or change your Medicare benefits.
  • Questions? Contact: Seniors Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), 1-800-Medicare or a TRUSTED, certified agent/broker available year-round.

Social Security Scams

  • Similar to Medicare scams, seniors will receive a call from someone claiming to be from the Social Security Administration asking for personal information.
  • Caller ID will provide Social Security’s actual number
  • More calls are being made by live people (versus robocalls). Some callers claim to be law enforcement claiming your Social Security Number was associated with a crime.
  • Callers threaten to suspend your Social Security Number or terminate your benefits unless you provide personal or financial information. 

Tips to protect yourself:

  • Social Security will NEVER call you at random.
    • Legally, Social Security must send you written notice if there are any changes to your benefits.
    • You will receive a letter if SSA needs to talk to you. The letter will provide the date, time of the call and the name of the caller on Social Security Administration letterhead
  • Never provide your Social Security Number (or even part of your SSN)
  • Social Security Numbers will never be suspended
  • When in doubt, visit the Social Security Administation in person or check your benefits on socialsecurity.gov/myssa.

Other Scams and Exploitation

“Stranger Danger” is not enough! Seniors often lose money due to schemes involving family, friends, or caregivers.

  • Grandparent Scam – Someone calling on behalf of a child or other relative claims they need money immediately (usually via wire transfer or overnight courier).
  • Sweetheart Scam – A con artist begins a friendship or relationship with a senior, often incapacitated, to win over their trust.
  • Financial Exploitation – A person, usually a caregiver or loved one, takes the assets of another person without their knowledge or consent.

Examples:

  • Adult daughter uses mom’s debit card to buy groceries – She spends $50 on groceries and $150 on clothes for herself.
  • Son forges his mom’s signature on checks to “help her out.”
  • Step-daughter takes keys of her step-father’s car while he’s in a nursing home recovering from a stroke and refuses to give the car back.
  • Nephew takes his uncle with dementia to a lawyer’s office to sign some documents – a power of attorney and deed transferring his house to the nephew.

Consequences:

  • Reduced livelihood: One could possibly lose a house, car, savings, pension, etc. due to actions of the abuser or creditors
  • Health Risks: One could lose Medicaid benefits and access to health care due to transfer of assets penalty
  • Loss of independence: A court could appoint a guardian if the exploited individual lacks capacity to make decisions.

Tips to protect yourself:

  • Discuss finances only with people you trust.
  • Ask financial institutions about fraud monitoring services.
  • Consider executing a Durable Power of Attorney
    • Appoint trustworthy person, who is capable of handling your affairs
    • Name alternates to your Power of Attorney
  • Do not hesitate to report any suspected exploitation to financial institutions, Adult Protective Services, and/or police

Resources

  • National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-372-8311
    Adult Protective Services (APS) 704-336-CARE
  • Seniors Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) 1-855-408-1212
  • Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for Social Security  1-800-269-0271
  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 1-877-FTC-HELP
  • North Carolina Dept of Justice 1-877-5-NO-SCAM
  • Legal Aid of North Carolina 1-866-219-LANC
  • Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy

What NOT to do when filing your taxes

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Filing taxes can be an overwhelming task, often because taxpayers are afraid of making mistakes. And there’s a good reason for some to feel that way: seemingly small mistakes made when filing your taxes can result in a major issue with the IRS down the road.

Learn what you need to do to file properly, protect yourself and ensure you have met all your obligations as a taxpayer.

What NOT to do when filing taxes:

  1. DO NOT forget to request and keep a copy of your filed tax return.
  2. DO NOT claim education credits on your tax return if you or one your dependents did not attend college.
  3. DO NOT file as “Married Filing Jointly,” if you and your partner are not married to each other.
  4. DO NOT file as “Head of Household,” if you are married and your spouse lived with you at the end of 2019, even if one spouse has a Social Security Number and the other has an ITIN.
  5. If you are self-employed, DO NOT forget to keep proof of your business income and business expenses, such as receipts.

Get free assistance preparing your taxes

Taxpayers who made less than $56,000 in 2019 can get FREE tax preparation services at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites throughout tax season. Find one near you today!

Workers with ITINs: Have you renewed your number with the IRS?

What is an ITIN? ITINs, Individual Tax Identification Numbers is a processing number the IRS issues to people who do not have a social security number but are required to have an identification number for tax purposes. ITINs do not serve any purpose other than federal tax reporting.

The IRS sends notices to taxpayers with ITINs informing them of when to renew their ITIN. If you received a letter to renew your ITIN, but you did not, then it has expired and needs renewal.

If you have filed taxes with an expired ITIN, refunds from tax credits and dependent exemptions will be held until you renew your ITIN.

The ITIN renewal process is the same as the application for a new ITIN. You must complete IRS Form W-7 and check “Renew Existing ITIN” at the top of the form.  You are still required to submit identifying documents.

Some local IRS offices can verify identification documents you need to renew your ITIN.

The Taxpayer Assistance Center in Charlotte and in other North Carolina cities can verify documents, but you will need to make an appointment in advance. The schedule an appointment at the closest office near you that can verify your information contact 844-545-5640.

Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy can assist taxpayers that need to renew their ITIN but does not verify or certify identification documents to submit with the W-7.

Learn more about ITIN Renewal.

Check out our other Tax Season Resources:

What to remember this Tax Season

Protect yourself from scams this Tax Season