For Delaware residents, the $300 is coming.
Since the passage of legislation last week, which created the Delaware rebate program, many readers have had questions about the program – mainly if it applies to them.
Below are some of the most common questions Delaware Online/The News Journal has received in recent days. Many of the answers come from the state’s website, de.gov/rebate, which residents should refer to if they have any additional questions.
What is the rebate program?
Due to rising gas prices and the toll of inflation, lawmakers created a program to give out a one-time, $300 payment to every Delawarean who filed a 2020 tax return.
This is likely the first time the state government has ever offered a rebate to residents. Gov. John Carney signed the legislation into law last week.
Do I qualify?
The program is for every Delaware resident who filed a 2020 tax return. Seniors and those who didn’t earn enough money to pay taxes in 2020 will still qualify for the $300.
When will I receive the money?
Officials estimate that the state will issue the rebate checks for those who filed a 2020 tax return by May 31. For those who still qualify, but didn’t file a tax return, it’s likely you’ll receive it in the coming months.
How will I get it?
The rebate will be sent by mail to the most recent address on file with the Division of Revenue, according to the state’s website.
What if I lived in Delaware in 2020, but wasn’t required to pay taxes?
You likely still qualify. There are about 150,000 residents who fall under this category.
The Department of Finance will establish a process to identify adults who did not file a 2020 state income tax return by combing through other state databases, specifically the Division of Motor Vehicles. For those who have not been identified, a website will be created for eligible residents to apply for the rebate.
What do I do if I paid my taxes, but didn’t receive my money?
The state plans to have residents receive the check by end of May. For those who don’t receive the money, go to de.gov/rebate. There, you will see the date the checks have been issued.
If you do not receive the check three weeks after it was issued, contact the state by sending an email at dor_rebate@delaware.gov or calling 302-577-8200.
What should I do if I changed my address?
According to the state’s website, you don’t have to do anything.
If you still don’t receive your check to your current address three weeks after it was issued, contact the state by emailing dor_rebate@delaware.gov.
Is this rebate taxable?
According to the state’s website, the money will not be subject to a state income tax. But, if you itemize deductions for federal income tax reasons, the rebate could have an impact on your 2022 federal income tax.
Can a deceased family member still receive the rebate?
No. The program is only applicable to those who filed taxes in 2020 and are still alive. If you receive a rebate check for a deceased loved one, it was a mistake. The state advises, on its website, for it to be mailed back to the Division of Revenue at PO Box 8600, Wilmington, DE 19899.
If I filed taxes with my spouse, will I still receive $300?
Married couples who filed taxes together will receive $600 as part of the rebate. Each spouse will be sent an individual $300 check.
For more questions, go to de.gov/rebate
