If you thought the pandemic-era stimulus checks were long gone, think again. The IRS is still sending out $1,400 federal payments in 2025 — but only to people who missed their third Economic Impact Payment back in 2021. And here’s the kicker: you must file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025 to claim it — or the money disappears for good.
So if you didn’t receive your full $1,400 payment — or didn’t get it at all — there’s still time to claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit. The IRS has confirmed that millions of Americans may be eligible and not even know it. Don’t leave money on the table.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Payment?
This payment comes from the third round of stimulus checks issued under the American Rescue Plan in 2021. While most people got the money automatically, others didn’t — especially non-filers, low-income individuals, gig workers, or people who recently changed bank accounts or addresses.
Here’s who qualifies to still receive the full $1,400:
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U.S. citizens or resident aliens who were not claimed as dependents on another person’s return
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You must have a valid Social Security number
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You filed or will file a 2021 tax return
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You earned less than:
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$75,000 for single filers
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$150,000 for married couples filing jointly
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$112,500 for heads of household
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If you made just above those limits, you could still receive a partial payment. But if your income exceeded $80,000 (single) or $160,000 (joint), you likely don’t qualify.
How to Claim Your $1,400 Payment in 2025
Claiming your stimulus check is easier than you think — but it does require you to file a 2021 tax return, even if you had little or no income that year.
Here’s what to do:
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File your 2021 tax return ASAP — The IRS accepts late returns through April 15, 2025, and that’s the cutoff to claim this money.
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Use IRS Free File if your income is below $73,000. This lets you file online for free.
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On your return, make sure you complete the section labeled “Recovery Rebate Credit.”
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Once your return is processed, the IRS will issue your payment — usually by direct deposit or mailed check, depending on how you file.
If you already filed but didn’t claim the credit, and the IRS determines you’re eligible, they’ve been automatically issuing payments since December 2024. Many are still being processed.
How to Check If You’ve Been Paid
Not sure whether you got your payment already? Here’s how to find out:
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Log into your IRS online account at irs.gov/account
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This shows your payment history, notices, refund info, and more.
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Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool at irs.gov/refunds to track your 2021 return.
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Look through old bank statements for a deposit from “IRS TREAS 310” or a mailed check.
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Watch for IRS letters like Notice 1444-C or Letter 6475 confirming payment amounts.
Be Cautious: Don’t Fall for Stimulus Scams
Scammers love to target people expecting IRS money. Here’s what to remember:
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The IRS will never call, text, or email you asking for bank info or personal details to release your stimulus.
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All payments and updates come via official IRS channels
Final Reminder: The Clock Is Ticking
This is your last chance to get the $1,400 stimulus you may have missed. If you qualify but don’t file your 2021 return by April 15, 2025, the money is gone forever — no exceptions. That’s not just a refund you’re leaving behind — it’s a full government benefit designed to help during a crisis.
So whether you’re filing for yourself, your elderly parent, or a low-income loved one, take action now.
Need help figuring it out? I’m here to walk you through the process step by step.
