SPRINGFIELD, MA - House Ways and Means Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after the Department of Treasury announced that Social Security beneficiaries will automatically receive CARES Act economic impact payments and will not have to file a simplified tax return to access those funds:
“This reversal gets us one step closer to accomplishing what we set out to do in the CARES Act-get money in the pockets of struggling Americans as soon as possible. After being inundated with concerns from constituents, yesterday, Ways and Means Democrats and I called on the Treasury Department to find a solution that would ensure our most vulnerable populations receive their economic impact payments without complications or undue burden. I am relieved that Secretary Mnuchin has heeded that call, but our work is not done.
“Now, Treasury should build on this progress and make the same automatic payment to some veterans and those who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). I urge the Trump Administration to make it easier for all individuals eligible for aid to access this new, vital support during the coronavirus pandemic."
