Millions of Americans could still be eligible for a $1,400 stimulus payment from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, but time is running out. If you missed out on this payment or got less than you were owed, you can claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit by filing a 2021 tax return. The deadline to file is July 15, 2025, and payments could arrive as early as July for those who act fast. This article breaks down who qualifies, how to claim the money, and what to expect.
Why Are These Payments Still Available?
The third round of stimulus checks, worth up to $1,400 per person, was sent out in 2021 to help Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many people didn’t get the full amount or missed it entirely due to issues like not filing taxes, outdated bank info, or IRS processing errors. The Recovery Rebate Credit is a way to claim this money now, but you must file a 2021 tax return by July 15, 2025, to get it. The IRS estimates millions are still eligible for these funds.
Who Can Get the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
Eligibility for the $1,400 payment depends on your 2021 income and filing status. Here’s a quick look at who qualifies:
|
Filing Status |
Full Payment (AGI) |
Phase-Out Starts |
No Payment (AGI) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Single |
Up to $75,000 |
$75,000 | $80,000 |
|
Married Filing Jointly |
Up to $150,000 |
$150,000 | $160,000 |
|
Head of Household |
Up to $112,500 |
$112,500 | $120,000 |
- Dependents: You can also claim $1,400 for each eligible dependent, like children or elderly relatives, listed on your 2021 tax return.
- Non-Filers: Even if you don’t usually file taxes because of low income, you can still file a 2021 return to claim this credit.
- Special Cases: Young adults who turned 18 in 2021, people who moved, or those with new dependents may have missed payments due to outdated IRS records.
Check your IRS online account to see if you received the full payment in 2021. If not, you may be eligible to claim the difference.
How to Claim Your Payment
To get the $1,400, you need to file a 2021 federal tax return and include the Recovery Rebate Credit on Form 1040. Here’s how:
- Gather Info: Check your IRS online account to see how much stimulus money you received in 2021.
- File a 2021 Return: Use tax software or a tax professional to file, even if you had little or no income. Make sure to fill out the Recovery Rebate Credit section.
- Submit by July 15, 2025: This is the final deadline. Missing it means you lose the chance to claim the money.
- Provide Bank Details: Include your current bank info for faster direct deposit. Otherwise, the IRS will mail a paper check.
Electronic filers can expect payments in 4-6 weeks, while paper filers may wait longer. The IRS will send a letter confirming your payment.
When Will You Get the Money?
If you file your 2021 tax return by early June 2025, you could receive your payment by July or August 2025. Direct deposits are faster, typically arriving within a month, while paper checks may take 6-8 weeks. The IRS uses the bank account or address from your 2021 return, so make sure your information is up to date. If you miss the July 15 deadline, the unclaimed funds go back to the U.S. Treasury.
Watch Out for Scams
Scammers are targeting people hoping to get stimulus money. The IRS will never call, text, or email you asking for personal info or payments to “unlock” your check. Always use the official IRS website (IRS.gov) to check your status or file your return. If something feels suspicious, contact the IRS directly or consult a trusted tax professional.
FAQs
Q1: What if I already filed my 2021 taxes but didn’t claim the credit?
A: If you left the Recovery Rebate Credit blank or entered $0, the IRS may have sent automatic payments in December 2024 or January 2025. Check your IRS online account to confirm.
Q2: Can I still get the money if I don’t usually file taxes?
A: Yes! Even if you had no income in 2021, you can file a tax return to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit by July 15, 2025.
Q3: How do I know how much stimulus I got in 2021?
A: Log in to your IRS online account and check the “Economic Impact Payment Information” section under “Tax Records.”
Q4: What happens if I miss the July 15, 2025 deadline?
A: Unfortunately, you’ll lose the chance to claim the $1,400. There are no extensions for this deadline.
Don’t miss out on money you’re owed. File your 2021 tax return before July 15, 2025, to claim your $1,400 stimulus check. Visit IRS.gov for more details and to check your eligibility today