Millions of Americans may still be eligible to receive a stimulus check of up to $1,400 but only if they act before the deadline. The IRS is issuing payments to taxpayers who missed out on the third round of Economic Impact Payments (commonly called stimulus checks) by not claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
Here’s everything you need to know to find out if you qualify—and how to claim your money before it’s too late.
Why the IRS Is Sending Out More Stimulus Checks
In December, the IRS announced it would distribute approximately $2.4 billion in stimulus checks to eligible taxpayers. This initiative targets those who either didn’t receive their full third stimulus payment or didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns.
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a refundable credit designed for individuals who didn’t receive some or all of their third Economic Impact Payment. These payments were part of the American Rescue Plan passed in 2021.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Payment?
You may qualify for this payment if:
- You filed a 2021 tax return but did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- You did not file a 2021 tax return, but you were eligible for the third stimulus check and file by April 15, 2025.
- You were under the income limits for the full stimulus amount:
- $75,000 or less for single filers
- $150,000 or less for joint filers
- $112,500 or less for heads of household
Even if you did not earn income in 2021, you may still qualify, but you must file a 2021 return to claim the credit.
How to Check If You Already Claimed the Credit
To determine whether you’ve already claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit:
- Review your 2021 Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
- Look at line 30, which is designated for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- If line 30 is blank or says $0, and you were eligible, you likely didn’t claim it.
How to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check
| Situation | Action Required |
|---|---|
| You filed a 2021 return but didn’t claim the credit | No action needed — IRS will automatically send payment |
| You didn’t file a 2021 return | File your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025 and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit |
| You filed a 2021 return with errors | File an amended return using Form 1040-X to claim the credit |
The IRS began sending payments in December 2023. Eligible individuals should receive their check either by direct deposit or mail, along with a notification letter.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, you forfeit the opportunity to claim the credit—and any tax refund you might be owed from that year. The IRS has a three-year window for claiming refunds, and after that, the money is no longer available.
Many taxpayers are still unaware that they qualify for this final round of stimulus checks. With over $2 billion on the table, it’s worth taking a few minutes to double-check your 2021 tax return—or file it if you haven’t yet. Don’t miss out on money that could be sitting there waiting for you.
FAQs:
Can I still claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for previous years?
No. Only the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit can still be claimed, and only until April 15, 2025.
What if I don’t owe taxes—do I still need to file?
Yes. Even if you owe no taxes or had little income, filing is the only way to claim the refundable credit.
What happens if I moved since 2021?
If your address has changed, update your information with the IRS to avoid missing any mailed checks or notices.
