San Antonio City Helping Residents, Including Those Experiencing Homelessness, Get Access To Third Federal Stimulus Payments

Press release from the City of San Antonio:

March 18, 2021

CONTACT: Roland Martinez
(210) 207-5920
roland.martinez3@sanantonio.gov

SAN ANTONIO (March 18, 2021) – Residents, including individuals experiencing homelessness, who do not normally file income tax returns and do not have bank accounts or a fixed address, may still be able to access direct stimulus payments available through the recently signed American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The City’s Department of Human Services and the San Antonio (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) VITA Coalition are partnering to ensure that these payments, up to $1,400 per individual, are available to the most vulnerable residents, including those experiencing homelessness.

The VITA program assists residents with completing and filing their federal income tax returns. The IRS has provided guidance to VITA providers to help residents access stimulus payments, which are issued based on prior year tax filing information. To assist unsheltered clients file their taxes and receive their stimulus check, Human Services will have VITA staff on site at the DHS Homeless Resource Hub located at San Fernando Gym, 319 W. Travis St., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. until at least April. 15. Additionally, DHS VITA will work with homeless providers across the community to ensure individuals and families experiencing homelessness are aware of this opportunity.

Residents with bank accounts will receive the stimulus payment as a direct deposit to their account. Those without bank account information can receive the payment as a prepaid debit card. DHS Financial Empowerment Center will be available to assist residents who would like to open bank accounts or need assistance managing their debit card.

“The City of San Antonio, as the level of government closest to our residents, is committed to helping San Antonians navigate and connect with resources to improve their quality of life,” City Manager Erik Walsh said. “This is a great example of City programs working together to support the most vulnerable in our community, especially those experiencing homelessness.”

“The goal of the Department of Human Services is to connect human services programs with the people who most need them in our community,” said Melody Woosley, Human Services Director. “Linking the long-established VITA program with our homeless outreach services boosts the reach of both programs to benefit those experiencing homelessness with direct cash assistance from the Federal government, helping those residents meet basic needs with the goal of improving their housing stability.”

This press release was produced by the City of San Antonio. The views expressed here are the author’s own.