CNMI Second Local Stimulus


We are excited about the CNMI Second 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 this method of payment.

Updated Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - as of June 3, 2022

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

    Anyone with a filing requirement who filed their 2021 tax return in the CNMI is eligible, provided they aren’t claimed as a dependent. For those with no filing requirement (i.e., no income), you must file a 2021 tax return to receive your second local stimulus prepaid card.

  • How much will I receive on the prepaid card?

    Each taxpayer will receive $500 plus an additional $500 per dependent included on your 2021 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?

    You can only use the local stimulus 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?

    Visit the Division of Revenue and Taxation with your social security card and valid photo ID to be issued a replacement card.

  • 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 2021 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 2021 tax return and have not received your prepaid card, visit the Division of Revenue and Taxation for assistance. Our call center is also available during business hours at 664-1040.

  • Is there an income threshold requirement?

    There are no income thresholds for the local stimulus.

  • 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?

    The address on your 2021 tax return is the mailing address we use. Please file Form 8822 Change of Address to update your mailing address with the Division of Revenue and Taxation. If your card is undeliverable, it will be returned to the CNMI Treasury.

  • How do I activate my prepaid card?

    Follow the instructions on your prepaid card to activate.

  • 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 January 31, 2023, if not used locally.
  • When do the funds expire?

    The local stimulus funds in the card will only be available until January 31, 2023.

  • Can I authorize someone else to use the card?

    The issued cardholder is the authorized user and is responsible for adequately using funds. Therefore, the Department of Finance is not liable for any unauthorized use of the prepaid cards.

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

    The prepaid card can 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. Bring your 2021 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.

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

    The primary filer on your 2021 tax return will receive the prepaid card.

  • Is the local stimulus taxable income?

    Yes, you must report the stimulus income on your 2022 tax return.


Come back soon for future updates to this site. Please call us at (670) 664-1040 if your question isn’t covered here.