Eligible Americans who missed out on their third-round Economic Impact Payment now have one final chance to receive up to $1,400 from the IRS. In January 2025, the IRS is issuing these final stimulus checks as part of the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC). If you didn’t claim this credit when you filed your 2021 tax return, this guide will walk you through who qualifies, when to expect your payment, and how to claim it before time runs out.
What Are the Final $1,400 Stimulus Checks?
The $1,400 payments are not new stimulus funds—they are delayed payments for individuals who were eligible under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 but did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing their 2021 tax return. These payments are being automatically sent to correct that oversight, with the IRS estimating that over one million people are still eligible.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
| Disbursement Total | $2.4 billion across all eligible individuals |
| Payment Type | Final Recovery Rebate Credit from 2021 |
| Payment Date | By late January 2025 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or paper check |
| Official Website | irs.gov |
Who Qualifies for the Final Stimulus Payment?
To be eligible for the $1,400 check, all of the following must apply:
1. You Didn’t Claim the 2021 RRC
This applies to people who:
- Didn’t file a 2021 tax return.
- Filed a return but didn’t include the Recovery Rebate Credit.
2. Your Income Falls Within Limits
Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) must fall below these thresholds to receive the full amount:
| Filing Status | Income for Full Payment | Phase-Out Ends |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Up to $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $150,000 | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | Up to $112,500 | $120,000 |
3. You Had a Valid Social Security Number
You (and your dependents, if claiming for them) must have a valid SSN for work.
4. You Have Eligible Dependents
Each qualifying dependent may add $1,400 per person, including:
- Children under age 17
- Full-time college students
- Elderly or disabled dependents
How to Check Your Eligibility
Not sure if you qualify? Here’s how to find out:
- Use the IRS Get My Payment Tool
Check your payment status online at irs.gov. - Review Your 2021 Tax Return
If Line 30 of Form 1040 doesn’t reflect the Recovery Rebate Credit, you likely missed it. - Call the IRS
Dial 1-800-829-1040 to speak with a representative.
When Will the $1,400 Payments Arrive?
The IRS has confirmed that payments will be issued by late January 2025:
- Direct Deposit: Fastest method, if your bank info is on file.
- Paper Checks: Mailed to your last known address if direct deposit is unavailable.
- Delays: May occur due to outdated banking info, mailing issues, or return processing.
How to Claim the Final $1,400 Stimulus Check
If you haven’t received your payment and believe you’re eligible, follow these steps:
Step 1: File or Amend Your 2021 Tax Return
Use Form 1040-X to amend your original 2021 return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Step 2: Use IRS Free File
If your income is under $73,000, you can amend and file for free via the IRS Free File program.
Step 3: Submit Electronically or by Mail
For fastest results, file electronically. If mailing, use certified mail to track your return.
Step 4: Track Your Refund
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool to monitor your payment status.
Watch Out for Scams
Fraud increases during stimulus disbursements. Stay safe by:
- Avoiding unsolicited emails or texts claiming to be from the IRS.
- Never sharing personal details unless on the official IRS website.
- Reporting scams via the IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting page.
Common Reasons for Delays
If you haven’t received your check yet, it could be due to:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Outdated Bank Information | Direct deposit fails if info is incorrect |
| Return Processing Delays | Backlog or amended returns may take extra time |
| Identity Verification | Additional IRS steps for flagged accounts |
| Mailing Issues | Paper checks may be misdelivered or delayed |
The final round of $1,400 stimulus checks is a last chance for many Americans to receive pandemic-related relief. If you believe you’re eligible, don’t wait—review your 2021 tax filing, file an amendment if needed, and keep your personal information up to date with the IRS. Missing this opportunity could mean leaving money on the table.
FAQs
Is this a new stimulus check?
No. It’s the final disbursement of funds originally authorized in 2021 under the American Rescue Plan.
How long do I have to amend my 2021 return?
The deadline to amend is typically three years from the original filing—until April 15, 2025.
