With stimulus check 2 still in limbo, a group of economists is calling for continued direct payments to individuals and families

More than 150 economists have signed a letter released by the left-leaning Economic Security Project calling on policymakers to "provide ongoing direct stimulus payments until the economy recovers"

The group argues that while the initial stimulus checks helped people pay for their needs, continued disbursements will keep spending going and help the economy recover more quickly The letter does not recommend a specific amount, but suggests that the amount of the payments be increased or decreased based on "economic indicators"

The letter states that "direct cash payments are an essential means of increasing economic stability, encouraging consumer spending, speeding economic recovery, and promoting as much certainty as necessary at all levels of government and the economy" Economists also argue that since consumer spending accounts for two-thirds of GDP, such sustained efforts are necessary to restore the economy

The American public has received many mixed signals about the stimulus package2 The Heroes Act, approved by the US House of Representatives, would extend relief payments to individuals and families beyond those provided under the Cares Act

President Trump has stated on other occasions that "very generous" benefits may be forthcoming "very soon," but has not provided specifics White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow has stated that "a direct check would probably be part of a second stimulus bill"

Meanwhile, Senator Mitch McConnell recently announced plans to submit his own version of a stimulus package, but has also suggested that the payments may be limited to those earning less than $40,000 a year

The hope is that the Senate will pass something by August 7, when the next summer vacation begins

To find out how much you could receive under the Heroes Act, enter your tax information into the Stimulus Check 2 Calculator If you think you can receive benefits even with the proposed income limit of $40,000, try this maximum amount calculator

The first wave of stimulus checks is still trickling out, and if you haven't found yours yet, there are several ways to check your payments, starting with the IRS Get My Payment app and setting up stimulus check notifications with the USPS Informed Delivery tool, receive an alert when your check or stimulus check debit card will arrive

You can also call the IRS stimulus check phone number to speak with a representative about the status of your payment