Uncashed stimulus checks sent to people who have died will be cancelled, according to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The IRS said that the deceased are not eligible for stimulus payments.

In efforts to send financial aid to families struggling during the coronavirus pandemic, the government sent checks to people who have filed taxes within the last two years, but some have died within that time period. 

“As a result of the review, IRS and the Bureau of Fiscal Service (BFS) took action to prevent future payments to deceased individuals,” the IRS said in the Q-and- section of its website. “The cancellation of uncashed checks is part of this process.”

“BFS has cancelled outstanding Economic Impact Payment (EIP) checks issued to recipients who may not be eligible, including those who may be deceased,” the IRS noted.

The stimulus checks came from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act that totaled $2 trillion back in March. A divided Congress worked together to provide monetary payments of $1,200 per individual making a salary of $75,000 per year or less. People making up to $99,000 received a smaller amount. 

Payments were sent to recipients in the form of direct deposits, checks or debit cards. 

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell hinted last week to expect another coronavirus relief package, which will include stimulus checks with a stricter salary gap.

“I think the people who have been hit the hardest are people who make about $40,000 a year or less. Many of them work in the hospitality industry. The hospitality industry … so that could well be a part of it,” McConnell said.

Democrats have advocated for another round of checks but creating a salary cap will spark disagreement. Some Republicans agree with McConnell’s emphasis to help low-income families, but much of the GOP is more concerned with boosting the economy and getting the unemployment rate down. Negotiations regarding the next package are expected to continue, despite Congress’ two-week recess.

Rachel Bucchino is a reporter at the National Interest. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, U.S. News & World Report and The Hill.

Image: Reuters.