CNMI Local Stimulus

We are excited about the CNMI Local Stimulus. We view this as a special opportunity to help our islands during these difficult times. This money is to be spent within the CNMI for the purpose of helping our local economy. Each taxpayer will receive a prepaid card in the mail. Instructions with how to activate the card will be included in the envelope. The prepaid card has geo-restrictions in place so it won’t be able to be used outside of the CNMI. ATM cash withdrawal won’t work either. You are welcome to use the card at any of the local business on island that accept visa card payments.

Updated Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - as of August 20, 2021

  • Who is eligible to receive the local stimulus prepaid card?

    Anyone with a filing requirement who filed their 2020 or 2019 tax return in the CNMI is eligible provided they are not being claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer. For those with no filing requirement (i.e., no income), you must file a 2020 tax return to receive a payment.

  • How much will I receive on the prepaid card?

    Each taxpayer will receive $500 plus an additional $500 per dependent included on your 2020 tax return.

  • Can I request to receive the local stimulus via check?

    No, the funds are only available to you through the local stimulus prepaid card.

  • Can I use the prepaid card to withdraw cash from an ATM?

    No, you can only use the prepaid card at any local business that accepts this payment method.

  • Can I spend my money outside the CNMI?

    The prepaid cards can only be used within the CNMI. These funds support our local economy.

  • Can I spend the money through an online business?

    You may use the prepaid card only if the online company is locally based.

  • What should I do if my card is lost or stolen?

    Immediately notify the issuer by going online to www.paymentcardinfo.com or call toll-free 1-833-848-5768.

  • I didn't receive the correct amount of funds on my card.

    Please visit the Division of Revenue & Taxation for assistance along with a copy of your most current tax return, your social security card, and a valid photo ID.

  • I haven't received my card. What should I do?

    If you have filed your 2020 tax return and have not received your prepaid card, then please contact the CNMI Treasury for assistance in receiving your card.

  • Is there an income threshold requirement?

    No, there are no income limits to receive a local stimulus payment.

  • I recently changed my mailing address after I filed my 2020 tax return. What should I do to have my prepaid card sent to the correct address?

    Generally, your card is mailed to the address as shown on your 2020 or 2019 tax return. Please contact the CNMI Treasury to update your mailing address. If your card is undeliverable, it will be returned to the CNMI Treasury.

  • How do I activate my prepaid card?

    Please call 1-833-848-5768 and follow the instructions to activate your prepaid card.

  • I am no longer residing in the CNMI, what do I do with my prepaid card?

    The local stimulus funds are meant to be used in the CNMI. Funds expire on March 31, 2022 if not used locally.

  • When do the funds expire?

    Although the cards are marked as valid until July 31, 2023, the local stimulus funds in the card will only be available until March 31, 2022.

  • Can I authorize someone else to use the card?

    The issued cardholder is the authorized user and is responsible for the proper use of funds.

  • I want to return an item I purchased with the card. Can I get refunded through the card?

    The prepaid card has the capability to receive a refund.

  • I provided my last four digits of my social security number to activate my card over the phone but I was unsuccessful. What should I do?

    Please visit the Division of Revenue & Taxation for assistance along with a copy of your most current tax return, your social security card, and a valid photo ID.

  • My name on the card is misspelled, has a different last name, or has my maiden name. What should I do?

    Attempt to activate the prepaid card using the last four digits of your social security number. If activation fails, please visit the Division of Revenue & Taxation for assistance along with a copy of your most current tax return, your social security card, and a valid photo ID.

  • I received a prepaid card that is not mine. What should I do?

    Please return the card to the CNMI Treasury.

  • Can I use the card to pay my co-payments or deductibles due to my health provider?

    Please check with the establishment if they accept this method of payment.

  • Why can't I use the card to pay my loans with local banks?

    Please check with your local bank if they accept this method of payment.

  • I made zero income in 2020 and have not filed a tax return. I did, however, file a 2019 return. Will I get a card?

    No, you must file your 2020 tax return even if you have zero income to be eligible to receive the local stimulus prepaid card.

  • We filed a joint return, who will receive the prepaid card?

    The primary filer on your 2020 tax return will receive the prepaid card.

  • Is the local stimulus taxable income?

    Yes, you must report the stimulus income on your 2021 tax return.

Come back soon for future updates to this site. Please email us at stimulus@dof.gov.mp if your question isn’t covered here.

The Official Website of the CNMI Department of Finance