Did you miss out on your $1,400 stimulus check? Don’t worry! You can still claim it by filing a 2021 tax return before the April 15, 2025 deadline. If you were eligible for the third Economic Impact Payment (EIP) but didn’t receive it, you can use the Recovery Rebate Credit to get the funds you’re owed.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the claiming process, eligibility, and key IRS resources to ensure you receive your rightful payment.
What is the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
The $1,400 stimulus check was part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, designed to help Americans recover financially from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This payment was the third Economic Impact Payment (EIP) and provided $1,400 per eligible person, including dependents.
The IRS automatically issued the payments based on your 2019 or 2020 tax return. However, some people may have missed out on this payment due to various reasons, such as not filing taxes or experiencing changes in income or family status.
If you were eligible but didn’t receive your full payment, you can still claim it by filing a 2021 tax return and applying for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
To qualify for the full $1,400 payment, you must meet the following requirements:
- Income Limits:
- Single filers: Earn up to $75,000Heads of household: Earn up to $112,500Married couples filing jointly: Earn up to $150,000
- Social Security Number (SSN):
- You must have an SSN that is valid for employment.
- Dependents must also have an SSN or an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN).
- Non-Filers:
- If you didn’t file a tax return in 2019 or 2020, you may have missed out on automatic payments.
- The best way to claim the payment is by filing a 2021 tax return, even if you usually don’t file taxes.
How to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check
If you missed the stimulus payment or received less than you expected, here’s how you can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit:
- Determine Your Eligibility:
- If you’re unsure whether you qualified for the stimulus payment, check your IRS Online Account or refer to IRS Notice 1444-C (the document that showed your previous payments).
- If you haven’t received the full amount, you may be eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- File a 2021 Tax Return:
- You must file a 2021 tax return to claim the credit.
- Even if you don’t usually file taxes, it’s essential to submit a return to receive the credit.
- Electronic filing is recommended as it’s the fastest way to process your return. You can use the IRS Free File system or a trusted tax professional to file online.
- Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit:
- On IRS Form 1040 (2021 tax return), you’ll find a section dedicated to the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- Refer to IRS Notice 1444-C or your IRS Online Account to see how much of the stimulus payment you’ve already received.
- If you were underpaid, the remaining amount will be credited to your tax refund.
- Track Your Payment Status:
- Once you’ve filed your return, use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track the status of your claim.
- If you provided your bank account details for direct deposit, you’ll receive the payment faster.
- Paper checks may take weeks to months to arrive, so it’s best to opt for direct deposit if possible.
Deadline to File
April 15, 2025 is the last date to file your 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
After this deadline, you will forfeit your stimulus check permanently, so make sure to file your tax return on time to secure your payment.
What If You Missed the Deadline?
Unfortunately, if you miss the April 15, 2025 deadline, you will lose your $1,400 stimulus check permanently. It’s essential to act now and file your 2021 tax return to avoid missing out on the payment you’re entitled to.
