As of June 2025, the IRS is distributing $1,400 stimulus checks to eligible individuals who missed out on the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2021. This credit was part of the COVID-19 relief efforts, and many taxpayers overlooked it. If you didn’t claim it then, you might still be eligible now.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit was introduced to provide financial relief during the pandemic. It was available to individuals who didn’t receive the full amount of the Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks) in 2021. If you missed out or received less than you were entitled to, you could claim this credit on your 2021 tax return. The IRS has identified that many eligible taxpayers didn’t claim it, leading to unclaimed funds.
Am I Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
To qualify for the $1,400 payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Filed a 2021 Tax Return: Even if you didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit initially, you must have filed your 2021 tax return.
- Income Limits:
- Single filers: Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) up to $75,000.
- Married couples filing jointly: AGI up to $150,000.
- Head of Household: AGI up to $112,500.
- Not Claimed as a Dependent: You must not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
- Valid Social Security Number (SSN): You need a valid SSN to qualify.
If you meet these criteria and didn’t claim the credit, the IRS will automatically issue the $1,400 payment. Payments began in December 2024 and continued into January 2025. They are being sent via direct deposit or paper check to the information on your 2023 tax return.
Deadline to Claim: April 15, 2025
If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return yet, you still have time. The deadline to file and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025. After this date, you won’t be able to claim the credit, and the funds will be forfeited.
If you missed the April 15, 2025, deadline to file your 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, unfortunately, you can no longer receive the $1,400 stimulus payment. The IRS enforces a strict three-year window for claiming tax refunds, and after this period, any unclaimed funds revert to the U.S. Treasury. There are no exceptions or extensions to this rule. However, you may still be eligible for other financial aid programs, such as state-issued monthly payments or bank promotions. It’s advisable to explore these alternatives to receive potential financial assistance.
Beware of Scams
Be cautious of scams related to the stimulus checks. Fraudsters may send phishing messages claiming you need to provide personal information to receive your payment. The IRS will never ask for personal information via text or email. Always verify any communication by contacting the IRS directly through their official website.
How to Check Your Eligibility
To check if you’re eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit:
- Visit the IRS Website: Go to IRS.gov.
- Use the “Get My Payment” Tool: This tool allows you to check the status of your payment.
- Review Your 2021 Tax Return: Ensure you filed it and check if you claimed the credit.
- File Your 2021 Tax Return: If you haven’t filed, do so by April 15, 2025, to claim the credit.
The $1,400 stimulus check is a final opportunity for eligible individuals to receive financial relief. If you missed claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2021, now is the time to act. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and file your 2021 tax return by the deadline. This payment can provide much-needed support, so don’t miss out.
What is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
It’s a tax credit for individuals who missed or received less than their full COVID-19 stimulus payments in 2021.
Who qualifies for the $1,400 stimulus check?
Individuals who filed a 2021 tax return, didn’t claim the credit, and meet income and dependency criteria.
What are the income limits for eligibility?
Single filers: AGI up to $75,000; Married filing jointly: AGI up to $150,000; Head of Household: AGI up to $112,500.
Do I need to file my 2021 tax return?
Yes, to claim the credit, you must file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025.
Will I receive the payment automatically?
If eligible and no action is needed, the IRS will send the payment automatically.
