If you missed out on the full third-round stimulus payment back in 2021, you might still be eligible to claim up to $1,400—but you have to act fast.
The IRS has set a final deadline of April 15, 2025, to file your 2021 tax return and claim what’s known as the Recovery Rebate Credit. This article walks you through who qualifies, how to claim the payment, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Credit?
This is not a new round of stimulus. It’s part of the third Economic Impact Payment issued in 2021 under the American Rescue Plan Act. The IRS is giving eligible individuals who didn’t receive the full payment—or any at all—one last opportunity to claim what they’re owed.
If you’re eligible, you could get up to $1,400 per person, including additional amounts for qualifying dependents.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
| Deadline to Claim | April 15, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Based on 2021 income & filing status |
| Where to File | IRS.gov |
| Delivery Method | Direct deposit or paper check |
Who’s Eligible to Receive It?
You may qualify if you:
- Didn’t get the third stimulus payment in 2021
- Didn’t receive the full amount
- Meet the income thresholds for your filing status
Here’s a breakdown of the income limits:
| Filing Status | Full Payment AGI | Phase-Out Ends |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Up to $75,000 | Ends at $80,000 |
| Head of Household | Up to $112,500 | Ends at $120,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $150,000 | Ends at $160,000 |
You also need to:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
Even if you received a partial payment in 2021, you can claim the difference now.
How to Claim Your Recovery Rebate Credit
To get the money, you must file a 2021 federal tax return, even if you weren’t required to file that year.
Step-by-Step:
- File Your 2021 Return
- Use IRS Free File or reputable tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block.
- You can still file even if you had zero income in 2021.
- Complete Form 1040
- Look for the Recovery Rebate Credit section.
- Double-check your entries to avoid mistakes that could delay your payment.
- Submit Before the Deadline
- The absolute last day to file and claim the credit is April 15, 2025.
When Will You Get Paid?
Once your return is processed, most people receive their payment in 4 to 6 weeks. The IRS will issue it via:
- Direct Deposit (if you provide banking info)
- Paper Check (if no banking info is provided)
People who filed late in 2024 have already started receiving payments. If you file early in 2025, you should still get your payment in time.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Filing the wrong year: Only a 2021 return counts.
- Skipping the credit section: Make sure to complete the Recovery Rebate Credit on Form 1040.
- Waiting too long: After April 15, 2025, it’s gone for good.
Don’t Fall for Scams
Scammers love to target taxpayers around stimulus payments. Keep these tips in mind:
- The IRS never calls, emails, or texts asking for personal info.
- Don’t pay anyone who claims they can “speed up” your stimulus.
- Always check your status using the official Get My Payment tool.
- Report suspicious activity to [email protected].
Millions of Americans still haven’t claimed their third stimulus check. If you think you’re one of them, now’s the time to act. With the April 2025 deadline approaching, filing your 2021 return could be worth up to $1,400 per person in your household.
FAQs:
Is this a new stimulus check?
No, it’s a chance to claim the third stimulus payment from 2021 via the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Can I claim this if I didn’t work in 2021?
Yes. Even with zero income, you can file a 2021 return to get the credit.
What if I got part of the stimulus in 2021?
You can still claim the difference if you didn’t receive the full amount.
