Important Resources on the American Rescue Plan

A MESSAGE FROM CONGRESSMAN STENY H. HOYER    

The past year has been one filled with heartache and frustration for many families in the Fifth District. My thoughts continue to be with the families of Marylanders who lost their lives to COVID-19. The economic and health impact of this crisis has been extremely challenging for so many in our nation. 

That’s why I was glad to see President Biden sign the American Rescue Plan into law last week. This new law will deliver critical relief to Maryland families and small businesses, and ensure our state has the resources it needs to fight this pandemic and build back stronger than before. It’s encouraging that thousands of families have already begun to feel the positive impact of this law. 

Below you will find information about accessing your direct payment, extended enhanced unemployment benefits, and additional resources. 

Economic Impact Payments 

One-time economic impact payments of $1,400 have already started to be distributed to Marylanders with adjusted gross incomes of up to $75,000 for individuals, and up to $150,000 for married couples filing jointly. Payments will begin to be reduced for individuals making above $75,000 and $150,000 for married filing jointly. The reduced payments end at $80,000 for individuals and $160,000 for couples; people above these levels are ineligible for a payment. Unlike the last two rounds of stimulus payments, eligible families will receive a payment based on all of their qualifying dependents claimed on their return, including older children like college students, as well as adults with disabilities, parents, or grandparents being cared for at home. Click here to track your payment.

For individuals who have already filed their 2020 tax returns, the IRS will use their income from this return to calculate the payment amount. For those who have not yet filed their return for 2020, the IRS will use their income from their 2019 tax return to calculate the payment. Social Security beneficiaries who are not typically required to file tax returns will not need to file an abbreviated tax return to receive an Economic Impact Payment. Payments will be distributed the same way they receive their Social Security payment, typically automatically deposited into their bank accounts.

More information is available from the IRS by clicking here.  

Unemployment Assistance 

The American Rescue Plan extends an additional $300 per week in federal unemployment benefits on top of the regular state unemployment program through Labor Day. The law also waives 2020 federal income taxes on up to $10,200 worth of unemployment benefits for individuals and up to $20,400 worth of unemployment benefits for married couples filing jointly. Click here for more information about the extension of unemployment benefits. 

Marylanders needing to file an unemployment benefits claim should use the BEACON Unemployment Insurance Application. Click here for additional information or to file a claim. If you need help filing for unemployment insurance, call 1-667-207-6520. Live agents are available Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Unfortunately our state has seen an increase in fraudulent claims, and Marylanders should remain vigilant. Click here to report fraudulent activity.

Funding for Vaccines 

The American Rescue Plan provides significant funding to increase vaccine production and distribution. I encourage all Marylanders to get a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to them. 

Maryland is currently in Phase 1C of vaccine distribution. Adults over the age of 65, health care providers, law enforcement officials, nursing home staff and residents, and those living in assisted living or congregate facilities are now eligible to receive the vaccine. Click here to see if you are eligible to receive the vaccine and register for an appointment.

Even if you are not yet eligible to receive the vaccine, you can pre-register to receive a vaccine at a mass vaccination site. Click here to pre-register. Once you pre-register, you will be notified when it is time to schedule an appointment.  

Strengthens Affordable, Quality Health Care

The American Rescue Plan increases eligibility for premium subsidies available through ACA marketplaces. A special emergency open enrollment period continues through May 15 to ensure more Marylanders have access to quality, affordable care. Click here to learn more about the open enrollment period and shop for the best plan for you and your family.

Nutrition Assistance for Maryland Families

Families throughout our state have experienced significant rates of hunger and food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Rescue Plan invests $12 billion in a variety of food assistance programs by extending increased SNAP benefits through September and allowing states to continue the Pandemic EBT program to ensure no child goes hungry during this crisis. If you need assistance applying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), click here. For information about the Pandemic EBT program, click here.

Rental and Housing Relief 

The American Rescue Plan invests $40 billion in rental and mortgage assistance for those struggling to pay their rent or mortgage. If you need assistance paying your rent or mortgage, 2-1-1 Maryland has compiled information about available resources. Click here to learn more.  

Apply for a Paycheck Protection Program Loan

Businesses in Maryland can still apply for PPP loans to keep workers on the job during the COVID-19 crisis. Click here to find a lender near you.

Our state will greatly benefit from the resources provided by the American Rescue Plan. My office will continue to work to ensure Fifth District residents have access to the resources and information they need to recover from this pandemic. 

As always, I encourage all Fifth District residents to continue to share their concerns and insights with me by contacting my office or connecting with me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. If you are experiencing a personal difficulty such as issues accessing veterans benefits or another problem regarding a federal agency and you wish for my office to place an inquiry on your behalf, please complete the casework request form by clicking here.