Millions of Americans may still be entitled to receive up to $1,400 from the third round of Economic Impact Payments originally issued in 2021. If you didn’t get the full payment—or missed it completely—there’s still time to claim it. But the window is closing fast. The final deadline to file a 2021 federal tax return and claim your money through the Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025—just 10 months away.
Here’s everything you need to know to secure your money before it’s too late.
Who Still Qualifies for the 2021 Stimulus Credit?
This payment isn’t new—it was authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and offered up to $1,400 per eligible person.
You may still be eligible if:
- You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021.
- You had a valid Social Security number.
- Your adjusted gross income (AGI) was below:
- $75,000 for single filers
- $112,500 for head-of-household
- $150,000 for married couples filing jointly
If you received a partial payment, or none at all, you can still claim the difference by filing your 2021 return.
Why People Missed Their Payment
The IRS estimates that nearly 1 million people may still qualify for this payment but haven’t claimed it.
Common reasons for missing out include:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Didn’t file 2021 taxes | IRS had no record to issue your check |
| Address changed | Paper checks were returned undelivered |
| Bank info was outdated | Direct deposit failed due to account closure |
| Claimed as a dependent in 2021 | Some adult dependents didn’t qualify for the full payment |
| Earned little or no income | Many believed they didn’t need to file, but still qualify |
Even if you earned zero income, you can still file and claim the credit.
How to File for the Recovery Rebate Credit
To claim your missing stimulus payment:
- File a 2021 federal tax return—not 2024 or 2025.
- Use tax software or the IRS Free File tool (available through October).
- Complete the “Recovery Rebate Credit” section on Form 1040.
- Input how much of the third-round payment you received, if any.
- The IRS will calculate and send you the difference.
You can use IRS Letter 6475 (mailed in early 2022) or check your IRS online account to see how much you already received.
When Will You Get Paid?
Once your 2021 return is filed and accepted:
- Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks
- E-filing with direct deposit is fastest
- People filing in mid-2025 can still expect prompt payments
If you wait until just before the April 2025 deadline, expect delays.
Don’t Fall for Scams
With the deadline approaching, scammers are more active. Be careful:
- The IRS never calls, texts, or emails to demand information.
- Avoid sharing personal or banking info with unverified sources.
- Use only official tax platforms or trusted preparers.
If you’re unsure about communication, go directly to irs.gov.
This is your final chance to claim the 2021 stimulus money. If you missed the payment due to a filing mistake, address change, or simple oversight, don’t leave up to $1,400 on the table. File your 2021 tax return now and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit before the April 15, 2025 deadline. Once that date passes, the money is gone for good.
FAQs
Is this a new stimulus check?
No—this is a credit for a missed payment from 2021.
How much can I get?
Up to $1,400 per eligible person.
What do I need to do?
File a 2021 tax return and complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section.
What if I didn’t work in 2021?
You can still file—even with $0 income—and claim the credit.
What’s the final deadline?
April 15, 2025. After that, you forfeit the payment.
