I know what IRS was worried about. They can’t go the SSA-1099 route unless they don’t have returns from 2019 and 2018. But they won’t have 2019 returns (or at least extensions) until at least July 15, right? And a few weeks after that, if they want to allow for processing time.

They haven’t told us what they are doing. But if a client really needs $1,200 or $2,400 now, and not four months from now, should we advise them to file? I have a few clients for whom I started returns just to make sure they were below the filing floor. Maybe it’s time to finish them.

And I don’t see where IRS has said it will use the bank account information that Social Security already has, to issue payments. That’s not in the law. They can use the SSA-1099 because they already have it. They don’t have the bank information. “Better Call Saul” is a TV show. It might not work with Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul.  (The law says the bank account information already in a federal payment system "may" be used, but does not require it.)

What about the people who receive Social Security, but also file tax returns, and owe taxes? Since they don't get a refund, will IRS know where they bank? Stay tuned.