$1400 Stimulus Checks Arriving in April 2025 – Check Eligibility and Payment Date

Time is running out to claim a stimulus payment you might have missed. If you didn’t receive the full third-round Economic Impact Payment back in 2021, you could still be eligible for up to $1,400—but you must file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025 to secure it.

This article breaks down everything you need to know about claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit, avoiding common mistakes, and getting your payment quickly and safely.

What This Payment Is—and Isn’t

First, this isn’t a brand-new stimulus check. Instead, it’s a final opportunity to claim funds from the third stimulus payments issued under the American Rescue Plan Act. Nearly one million people could still qualify, but action is required.

Detail	Information
Payment Amount	Up to $1,400 per eligible person
Claim Deadline	File your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025
Eligibility	Income-based, tied to 2021 tax filing
Delivery Method	Direct deposit or paper check
Where to File	IRS.gov

The $1,400 Stimulus Check: What You Need to Know

Originally distributed in 2021, these third-round stimulus payments provided much-needed support. However, not everyone received their full amount due to issues like unfiled tax returns, outdated addresses, or missing banking information.

Now, the IRS is offering a final chance to claim that money—if you act before the deadline.

Who Qualifies for the Recovery Rebate Credit?

Eligibility largely mirrors the original third stimulus check requirements:

Filing Status	Full Payment Income Limit	Payment Phase-Out Ends
Single	Up to $75,000	$80,000
Head of Household	Up to $112,500	$120,000
Married Filing Jointly	Up to $150,000	$160,000

Additional Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Must have a valid Social Security number
• Cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return

Even if you received part of the third stimulus in 2021, you may still be eligible to claim the difference through this credit.

How to Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit

If you haven’t yet filed a 2021 tax return, now is the time. Here’s how to do it:

1. File Your 2021 Return:
   Use IRS Free File, TurboTax, H&R Block, or other reputable services. Even if you had zero income in 2021, you must file to claim the credit.
2. Complete Form 1040 Carefully:
   Look for the “Recovery Rebate Credit” section. This part determines your eligibility and the payment amount you could receive.
3. Submit Before the Deadline:
   The deadline to file and claim the credit is April 15, 2025. After that, the opportunity disappears permanently.

When to Expect Your Payment

Once your 2021 tax return is filed and processed:

Payment Method	Details
Direct Deposit	Fastest option if banking info is provided
Paper Check	Slower delivery if no bank info is available

Typically, payments are issued within 4 to 6 weeks after the IRS approves your return. Late 2024 filers have already started receiving payments, and early 2025 filers should expect similar timelines.

Protect Yourself from Scams

Unfortunately, scammers often take advantage during payment windows. Here’s how to stay safe:

• The IRS will never call, text, or email asking for your banking or personal information.
• Always use the official IRS Get My Payment tool to check your status.
• Report suspicious activity to [email protected].

If anyone asks for money or promises to “speed up” your payment, it’s a scam—walk away.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing the Wrong Tax Year: Only your 2021 tax return counts.
• Missing the Credit Section: Make sure you properly complete the Recovery Rebate Credit part on Form 1040.
• Waiting Too Long: After April 15, 2025, your chance to claim the payment is gone for good.

Don’t miss out on money you’re entitled to. A few simple steps could secure up to $1,400—or more if you’re eligible for dependent bonuses.

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