As members of Congress continue to debate what will be included in the two stimulus check packages, federal unemployment benefits expire today (July 31), leaving many unemployed Americans without a clear idea of how they will be paid in the coming months

Earlier this week, Senate Republicans introduced the HEALS bill The bill would provide direct benefits to low- and moderate-income Americans and extend federal unemployment benefits

Since the CARES Act was passed earlier this spring, workers have been eligible for an additional $600 per week in state unemployment benefits, with the last check to be paid in the week ending July 31

This means that many Americans received their last federal grant last weekend, as most states pay unemployment benefits on Saturday or Sunday

The additional $2,400 in monthly federal funding is essential for many According to a US Census Bureau study, 24 million Americans may not be able to pay their next rent without federal unemployment benefits, reports USA Today State unemployment programs generally provide only $400 a week or less

The Senate's HEALS Act would continue federal unemployment benefits at just $200 per week for two months until states move to a system that pays relief at a rate of up to 70% of a worker's previous earnings

Democrats, on the other hand, are calling for the continuation of the current $600 payment Several Republican senators also announced a new proposal Thursday (July 30) to phase out federal unemployment benefits at $500 per week in August, $400 per week in September, and $300 per week in October States could also replace income up to 80% of a worker's pre-unemployment salary

Lawmakers generally agree on the benefits of sending direct payments again to most Americans, whether employed or not; the HEALS Act uses the same formula as the CARES Act, so singles earning less than $75,000 a year and up to $150,000 Married individuals will receive a check for $1,200 Those earning up to $99,000 or $198,000, respectively, will receive a pro-rated benefit

The HEALS Act also expands the dependent child allowance to include dependents of all ages, not just those under age 16 An additional $500 will be added for each dependent who applies

You can use this Stimulus Check 2 Calculator to see how much you will receive If you have not yet received your first stimulus check, check the status on the IRS Get My Payment app or call a representative at the IRS stimulus check phone number