IRS to issue new debit card guidance after Katko request

After leading a bipartisan effort urging the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to take immediate steps to address confusion surrounding the agency’s delivery of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) by debit card, U.S. Rep. John Katko (R-NY) announced that the IRS will provide additional guidance to taxpayers who received an EIP debit card, but have yet to activate it.

“I’m glad the IRS will finally provide additional guidance to individuals who received EIP Debit Cards but have yet to activate them,” said Rep. Katko. “While this is a step in the right direction, we still need further clarification from the IRS to resolve other issues with these payments.”

The IRS plans to send letters this month advising these individuals to utilize their card, or obtain a free replacement if necessary, according to information provided by Rep. Katko’s office.

The congressman, along with U.S. Rep. Anthony Brindisi (D-NY), recently had heard from local families and individuals who believed their EIP debit cards were not legitimate and mistakenly destroyed them, according to the information.

While they applauded the new IRS guidance news, the lawmakers urged additional clarification on how taxpayers can verify the legitimacy of these cards and requested an explanation as to why taxpayers received varying forms of payment.

“I will continue pushing the IRS to provide an explanation as to why taxpayers received varying forms of payment, and ensure taxpayers have the necessary information to verify the legitimacy of these cards,” Rep. Katko said.

“The squeaky wheel gets the grease, and I will always make noise when Upstaters aren’t getting what they deserve,” said Rep. Brindisi. “If you’re still waiting on an Economic Impact Payment, keep an eye on your mail. This time their correspondence should be clearly marked.”