If you thought all the pandemic stimulus checks were over, think again. The IRS has confirmed that over 1 million Americans are still owed up to $1,400, and late payments are finally being sent out this year. In a rare move, the agency is automatically issuing checks to qualifying individuals—many of whom don’t even realize they missed out.
So if you skipped the paperwork or filed a return without claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2021, you could still be getting a check in 2025. And in some cases, you don’t even need to apply—the IRS is doing the work for you.
Who Is Getting These Late Stimulus Payments?
This final round of payments comes from the third and final Economic Impact Payment (EIP) issued in 2021—better known as the $1,400 stimulus check authorized under the American Rescue Plan.
According to the IRS, the latest payouts are going to:
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Taxpayers who filed a 2021 return but left the Recovery Rebate Credit blank or mistakenly claimed they weren’t eligible.
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Low-income individuals who didn’t originally file a 2021 tax return but now qualify based on income or dependent status.
If you fall into either of those categories, you could receive up to $1,400 per person—or $2,800 for married couples. Those with dependents may receive even more, depending on how many were listed on the return.
When Are These Payments Going Out?
These automatic refunds started going out in late December 2024 and continued into early 2025. The payments are being sent via direct deposit or mailed paper checks, depending on how you received your last refund. Most recipients should have already seen the money arrive—or will see it in the coming weeks.
The IRS is also mailing notices to affected taxpayers, letting them know they’ve received a late rebate under the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.
Didn’t File a 2021 Return? You’ve Still Got Time—but Not Much
If you never filed a 2021 federal tax return, the clock is ticking. The IRS has given you until April 15, 2025, to file and claim your payment. After that, the money disappears for good—just like unclaimed refunds.
To claim your missing payment, you’ll need to:
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File a 2021 Form 1040 (even if you had no income or weren’t required to file).
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Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet to determine your eligibility.
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Submit your return by the April 15, 2025 deadline.
Why This Stimulus Still Matters in 2025
With inflation, rent hikes, and rising grocery bills still squeezing household budgets, this late round of stimulus checks could make a real difference. While it may seem like old news, the reality is that millions accidentally left money on the table in 2021—either by forgetting to file, missing the credit box, or simply not knowing they qualified.
This IRS move is one of the final phases of COVID-era relief. And unlike past programs, you might get the money automatically—even if you forgot to file the right paperwork years ago.
What You Should Do Right Now
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Check your mail and bank account for recent deposits or IRS letters referencing the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.
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File your 2021 tax return immediately if you haven’t already—it’s your last shot to claim up to $1,400 per person.
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Beware of scams. The IRS does not email or text about stimulus payments. Only trust official communications sent by mail or found at .
Final Takeaway
Yes, stimulus payments are still going out in 2025—but time is running out. Whether you’re owed money or know someone who might be, this is your last chance to cash in on one of the most significant relief programs in U.S. history. Don’t assume you’re ineligible—check your status, file if needed, and claim what’s yours before it’s too late.
