City Helping Residents, Including Those Experiencing Homelessness, Get Federal Stimulus Payments
March 22, 2021 - San Antonio
By Jade Esteban Estrada, Staff Writer | San Antonio Sentinel
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- Residents may still be able to access direct stimulus payments available through the recently signed American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
- The City’s Department of Human Services and the San Antonio Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Coalition are partnering to ensure that these payments are available to the most vulnerable residents
Residents, including individuals experiencing homelessness, who do not normally file income tax returns and do not have bank accounts or a fixed address, may still be able to access direct stimulus payments available through the recently signed American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The City’s Department of Human Services and the San Antonio (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) VITA Coalition are partnering to ensure that these payments, which are up to $1,400 per individual, are available to the most vulnerable residents, including those experiencing homelessness.
“The goal of the Department of Human Services is to connect human services programs with the people who most need them in our community,” said Melody Woosley, Human Services Director. “Linking the long-established VITA program with our homeless outreach services boosts the reach of both programs to benefit those experiencing homelessness with direct cash assistance from the Federal government, helping those residents meet basic needs with the goal of improving their housing stability.”
The VITA program assists residents with completing and filing their federal income tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service has provided guidance to VITA providers to help residents access stimulus payments, which are issued based on prior year tax filing information. To assist unsheltered clients file their taxes and receive their stimulus check, Human Services will have VITA staff on site at the DHS Homeless Resource Hub located at San Fernando Gym, 319 W. Travis Street, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. until at least April 15. Additionally, DHS VITA will work with homeless providers across the community to ensure individuals and families experiencing homelessness are aware of this opportunity.
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“The City of San Antonio, as the level of government closest to our residents, is committed to helping San Antonians navigate and connect with resources to improve their quality of life,” City Manager Erik Walsh stated in a press release. “This is a great example of City programs working together to support the most vulnerable in our community, especially those experiencing homelessness.”
Residents with bank accounts will receive the stimulus payment as a direct deposit to their account. Those without bank account information can receive the payment as a prepaid debit card. DHS Financial Empowerment Center will be available to assist residents who would like to open bank accounts or need assistance managing their debit card.
Jade Esteban Estrada is a staff writer for the San Antonio Sentinel, where he covers public health and other citywide issues. jade@sasentinel.com | Twitter: @getjaded