Case managers at SEARCH Homeless Services helped us better understand the process and what it means for people experiencing homelessness.

 

The only way that people experiencing homelessness can receive their stimulus payment is by filing a tax return, even if they don’t normally file taxes or are not required to file a tax return. If they did not receive any or received less than the full amount of the Economic Impact Payments (also known the EIP, or stimulus check), they must file a 2020 tax return to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. 

If the person already has a bank account or direct deposit info, they can provide that to the tax preparer. If they do not have a bank account, the tax preparer can provide a pre-paid debit card with direct deposit info that can be used when filing. Once the IRS processes the return, they will receive the direct deposit on that debit card. 

There are many free volunteer income tax centers in our area. Search by zip code online at https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/. See below for three Houston locations:

1303 San Jacinto

Houston, TX 77002

713-659-8040 

Languages: English, Spanish, and Portuguese

Appointment Required

320 N. Main Street, Suite 410-F

Houston, TX 77002

713-221-5015
Languages: English, Vietnamese, and Spanish

Appointment Not Required

Hours: Th-Fr 10:00am-4:00pm

Sat 10:00am-2:00pm

4410 Navigation Blvd

Houston, TX 77011

713-273-3755
Languages: English and Spanish 

For more detailed assistance, clients can also contact the United Way MyFreeTaxes Helpline at 1-844-322-3639 or visit their website.