Millions Could Still Get Paid — If They Act Fast
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is urging eligible taxpayers to file their 2021 tax returns by April 15, 2025, to claim the $1,400 stimulus check through the Recovery Rebate Credit. This marks the final opportunity for Americans who missed out on the pandemic-era payments to receive their full benefits.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
To qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit and receive a $1,400 stimulus payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Lived in the U.S. in 2021
- Had a valid Social Security number
- Were not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2021 return
- Did not receive the full stimulus amount in 2021
- Have not yet filed a 2021 tax return
Income Requirements
Eligibility is based on your 2021 adjusted gross income (AGI):
| Filing Status | Income Limit | Maximum Stimulus |
|---|---|---|
| Single Filer | $75,000 or less | $1,400 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 or less | $2,800 |
How to Claim Your Recovery Rebate Credit
Even if you didn’t earn income in 2021, you must file a 2021 tax return to receive the stimulus check.
- File a 2021 return: Use tax software, a tax preparer, or IRS Free File.
- Direct deposit: Enter your current bank info to receive funds faster.
- Mail option: If no bank is provided, the IRS will mail a paper check.
- Confirmation letter: A follow-up notice will confirm your payment was sent.
The IRS has already sent checks to 1 million Americans earlier this year who filed but didn’t claim the credit. However, non-filers must act now to receive their money.
Why the April 15 Deadline Matters
The IRS enforces a strict three-year refund statute expiration date. That means:
If you haven’t filed your 2021 return by April 15, 2025, you forfeit any chance of receiving the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit — permanently.
This deadline also applies to other refundable tax credits from 2021, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
Why Some People Missed the Stimulus Check
According to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, about 1 million taxpayers failed to claim the credit despite being eligible. Reasons include:
- Not knowing they had to file
- Assuming it was automatic
- Low income or no income in 2021
“Looking at our internal data, we realized that one million taxpayers overlooked claiming this complex credit when they were actually eligible,” Werfel said.
Final Stimulus Payments: What to Expect
Here’s what happens once you file:
- Payment Type: Direct deposit or paper check
- Amount: Up to $1,400 per eligible adult
- Timing: Depends on how quickly your return is processed
The payments are not taxable and won’t affect your 2024 tax refund.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
If you didn’t receive a stimulus check in 2021 and haven’t filed that year’s return, now is your final chance to claim your $1,400 payment. File by April 15 to ensure you receive every dollar you’re entitled to.
Stay Informed: Subscribe for updates on IRS payments, tax credits, and refund deadlines.
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.