Massachusetts will implement a unique premium compensation program for employees, sending paychecks for $500.
The state of Massachusetts will give checks to 500,000 people. The big winner will be essential workers.
"The distribution of the first round of $500 payments to low-income workers under the COVID-19 Essential Employee Premium Payment program is finally underway," Senator Pat Jehlen tweeted.
"I'm glad these essential workers who worked through the pandemic are getting a little help."
On December 13, 2021, Governor Charlie Baker signed the COVID-10 Essential Employee Compensation Program into law.
The state of Massachusetts has earmarked $460 million for the payment of bonuses to workers. They distributed a $500 payment to 500,000 low-income workers across the state.
How am I eligible?
To be eligible, you must have:
- The 2020 tax return has been filed.
- Reside in Massachusetts in 2020 or a one-year resident who lived in Massachusetts between March 10, 2020 and December 31, 2020.
- Earnings of at least $12,750 in 2020 workers' compensation. The $12,750 earnings requirement is equivalent to working 20 hours a week for 50 weeks at the minimum wage as of 2020 ($12.75).
- Had a total household income at or below 300% of the federal poverty level in 2020.
Anyone who received unemployment benefits in 2020 is not eligible for the first round of checks.
"However, unemployment benefits in 2019 or 2021 will not affect eligibility for a Tier One allowance, as long as you are eligible based on residency and income," Governor Baker's spokesman said.
According to the Massachusetts state website, everyone who is eligible will receive a check in the mail.