LAist relies on reader support, not paywalls.
Freely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today.
Some Spouses Of Immigrants Are Being Denied Pandemic Relief Checks In California
President Trump's signature appears on letters announcing the recipient will receive an Economic Impact Payment of up to $1,200 per person, part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. (Libby Denkmann for LAist)
Millions of American taxpayers are getting government stimulus checks of up to $1,200 per person.
But some U.S. citizens are being denied the money, because they’re married to immigrants who lack a Social Security number. A new lawsuit from the Mexican American Legal Defense Fund seeks to change that.
The group filed a federal suit this week challenging the Trump Administration’s policy of denying the benefit to citizens who file their taxes jointly as a married couple, with a spouse who uses an Individual Tax Identification Number, or ITIN.
The group argues that the current policy violates the constitution’s guarantee of equal protection and free speech.
READ THE FULL STORY:
Our news is free on LAist. To make sure you get our coverage: Sign up for our daily coronavirus newsletter. To support our non-profit public service journalism: Donate Now.