Senator Dodd Announces the Start of Economic Recovery Payments for Social Security Recipients

May 19, 2009 -- Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) announced last week that Social Security recipients should begin to receive the $250 economic recovery payments, which were provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The Social Security Administration will deliver the payments by check or direct deposit depending on how the individual normally receives their benefits.

Additionally, under the ARRA, Connecticut Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, Railroad Retirement recipients and disabled veterans will also receive $250 economic recovery payments. These payments are scheduled to begin going out to SSI recipients in mid-May, to Railroad Retirement recipients in late May and to disabled veterans in June. In total, more than 550,000 Connecticut residents will receive these stimulus payments through the end of June.

“During the current economic downturn, every little bit helps. These recovery payments will provide crucial financial resources to help Connecticut seniors and disabled veterans, many of whom live on fixed incomes, pay their monthly bills,” said Dodd. “For many families hit hard by this economic crisis, these payments will help them make ends meet during these difficult times.”

Many Connecticut state employees, such as teachers that do not receive Social Security, will receive up to $250 as a refundable tax credit on their 2009 tax return.

Source: Chris Dodd