Millions of Americans may still be eligible for a stimulus payment of up to $1,400 from the IRS—but time has officially run out to claim it.
This money, part of the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) tied to the third stimulus check from 2021, was meant to help people through the economic fallout of the pandemic.
If you missed it, here’s what you need to know about checking your payment status, eligibility, and what to do next.
Deadline
The IRS recently confirmed that over one million people could still qualify for this payment. But there’s a catch—the deadline to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit ended on April 15, 2025. If you didn’t file your 2021 tax return by then, unfortunately, you’ve lost the chance to claim this money.
Why did so many miss out? A lot of individuals with non-taxable income, like Social Security recipients, didn’t know they needed to file to receive the check. Others may have made minor filing errors that blocked the payment. Either way, if your return wasn’t submitted on time, the IRS can’t issue the payment now.
Eligibility
To qualify for the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit, you needed to:
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Not be claimed as a dependent on another person’s return
- File a 2021 tax return, even if you had no or very little income
Yes, even if your income was zero, you still needed to file to get the payment.
Free Filing Options
The IRS also reminded taxpayers that they offer free filing services on their official website. This was especially helpful for low-income households or those with simple returns who may have struggled with accessing tax help.
Payment Tool
If you filed and think you qualified, but still haven’t received your stimulus check, the IRS has your back. Their “Get My Payment” online tool lets you track the status of your payment in real time.
Here’s what you need to use it:
- Your Social Security Number
- Your date of birth
- The mailing address used on your last tax return
- A copy of your most recent tax return for reference
Once you enter the info, you’ll get one of three results:
- Payment status – Your check has been processed and you’ll see the payment date.
- Payment status not available – Your payment hasn’t been scheduled yet, even if you qualify.
- Need more information – Usually shows up if the payment was returned to the IRS due to delivery issues.
In some cases, if your bank info wasn’t on file, the system may even let you enter or update your direct deposit details, speeding up delivery.
Why Use the Tool?
Using “Get My Payment” is the fastest and safest way to see where your money is. It saves you from calling the IRS (and waiting on hold forever) and gives peace of mind if you’re wondering whether your check is still on the way or got stuck in limbo.
Even though the deadline has passed, it’s still smart to check your status, especially if you filed on time and think you should’ve gotten the money.
FAQs
What is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
It’s a $1,400 stimulus payment from the 2021 American Rescue Plan.
What’s the deadline to claim the RRC?
The deadline was April 15, 2025.
Who is eligible for the RRC?
You need a SSN, must not be a dependent, and must file a 2021 return.
How do I track my payment?
Use the IRS ‘Get My Payment’ tool online.
What info do I need for Get My Payment?
SSN, birth date, address, and recent tax return.
