There is no denying that COVID-19 has changed the way Americans live and work. In response to the crisis, the federal government has stepped in and sent stimulus checks to individuals who fall below certain income thresholds. But how will these stimulus checks affect the benefits that you are already receiving, such as disability benefits or workers’ compensation benefits?
The Freehold, New Jersey workers’ compensation attorneys at Lomurro Law can answer all of your questions and address all of your legal concerns about your stimulus check and continued receipt of workers’ compensation benefits. Please call us today for more information about how we can assist you with your legal issue or problem.
The CARES Act and How It Works
The CARES Act, formally known as the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, became law on March 27, 2020, in an effort to jumpstart the economy in the midst of the novel coronavirus. As a part of the law, a threshold is established for individuals who have an adjusted gross income of $75,000 for individuals (or a maximum of $150,000 for married couples who file taxes jointly).
Individuals who earn below $75,000, as measured by their most recently filed tax return, will receive a one-time stimulus check in the amount of $1,200. Married couples who file jointly, and whose combined incomes fall below the $150,000 threshold, will receive a one-time stimulus check in the amount of $2,400.
Individuals who make more than these thresholds will receive a reduced payment, proportionate to their adjusted gross incomes. The individual AGI cap is $99,000, while the married couple (without children) AGI cap is $198,000.
Impact on Workers’ Compensation Benefits
People who suffer injuries while they are working on the job – and while they are within the scope of their employment – may be entitled to one or more forms of workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits are available to injured workers without regard to fault. Potential workers’ compensation benefits can include compensation for a portion of the worker’s lost earnings, permanency disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation benefits.
In light of the stimulus checks distributed by the federal government in recent weeks, many questions have arisen as to whether individuals who currently have a pending workers’ compensation claim – and/or who receive workers’ compensation benefits and payments – are eligible to receive a government stimulus check.
Fortunately, the Act does not eliminate a worker’s eligibility for a stimulus check, as a result of any kind of disability payment that he or she receives – including workers’ compensation benefits. Therefore, a worker who receives benefits through the Workers’ Compensation System – and who satisfies all of the other requirements imposed by the Act – should still be eligible to receive a stimulus check.
Speak to a Freehold NJ Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
The team of experienced attorneys at Lomurro Law is ready to help injured workers pursue the benefits that they need and deserve. To schedule a free case evaluation and legal consultation with Erik Yngstrom, a Certified Workers’ Compensation attorney, please call us at 732-482-9285 or contact us online to learn more about how we can assist you with your claim.