Ask 2: I had a baby in 2020, how do I get the extra $1,100?

Stock image of a baby announcement (Pixabay.com)

At KPRC 2, we’re dedicated to keeping Houstonians informed. As part of our Ask 2 series, the newsroom will answer your questions about all things Houston.

Question: I had a baby in 2020, how do I get the extra $1,100?

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Answer: Many parents who had babies last year qualify for the extra $1,100 alongside their third stimulus checks under the American Rescue Plan signed by President Joe Biden in March.

In order to claim the money, the IRS needs to have both your 2018 and 2019 tax information, including any dependents you may have claimed. Once you file your 2020 taxes, claim your new dependent, and claim the $1,100 as a Recovery Rebate Credit.

If your income has changed in 2020 due to the pandemic, be sure to note that, too.

If you already filed your 2020 taxes and received your refund, you may need to amend your 2020 tax return using Form 1040-X from the IRS to add the Recovery Rebate Credit. Otherwise, your eligibility will be based on only your 2018 and 2019 returns.

Do you have a question? Send it our way, and we will try to hunt down an answer.

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About the Author:

A graduate of the University of Houston-Downtown, Ana moved to H-Town from sunny southern California in 2015. In 2020, she joined the KPRC 2 digital team as an intern. Ana is a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, a catmom of 3, and an aquarium enthusiast. In her spare time, she's an avid video gamer and loves to travel.