Do you know that if you did not take the third stimulus payment in 2021, you can still get up to $1,400? Yes, the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) is still giving this amount to those who missed it earlier. But note – there is only time till April 15, 2025 to get this money.
Many people still do not know that they are entitled to this relief amount. Let’s understand this whole topic in detail in simple language.
What is this $1,400 stimulus check?
At the time of the Kovid-19 pandemic, the US government gave several economic relief packages (Stimulus Payments) to help the common people. These were called Economic Impact Payments, and they were distributed in several phases.
The third stimulus payment was announced in 2021, under which eligible individuals were given an amount of up to $1,400. This amount was attached to the 2021 tax return in the form of Recovery Rebate Credit.
The IRS recently reported that the amount of $2.4 billion dollars has still not reached those who were eligible. This means that there are thousands of people who either did not file their 2021 tax return, or did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Who can still get this money?
Now the question is – are you entitled to this amount? Let’s know who can still get this check:
Those who filed their 2021 tax return but did not claim Recovery Rebate Credit
People who filed their tax that year but mistakenly did not fill the Recovery Rebate Credit may still be eligible. The IRS is investigating such cases and if you are eligible, the amount may be automatically transferred to your bank account.
Those who did not file tax returns in 2021
If you have not filed your 2021 return, there is still a chance. The IRS has set the last date as April 15, 2025. You can still get this amount by filing your 2021 return.
How to know if you claimed the credit or not?
To know this, you have to look at your 2021 tax return. There is a separate line for Recovery Rebate Credit in it. If $0 is written in that line or it is blank, then you probably did not claim this credit.
- Key points of the $1,400 stimulus check at a glance
- Subject Description
- Amount Maximum $1,400 per eligible person
- Payment type Recovery Rebate Credit (linked to 2021)
- Eligibility 1. Filed a return but did not take the credit
Did not file a return at all
- How to claim File a 2021 tax return and claim the credit
- Deadline April 15, 2025
- If you have filed a return IRS will automatically send the payment if found eligible
- How to get payment Direct deposit or through check
- How to get information IRS will send letters to eligible people
What to do if you have not filed your 2021 tax return?
In this situation, you have to file your 2021 tax return as soon as possible. For this, you can visit the IRS website irs.gov or take the help of a qualified tax preparer.
Keep in mind – not only Recovery Rebate Credit, you can also get other tax refunds of 2021. For example:
- If you earned less that year and did not pay tax, you can still get a refund.
- If you deposited any income tax and it was more, then you will also get a refund.
Do I have to apply separately?
If you have filed your 2021 tax return and are eligible, then you do not need to do anything. The IRS will automatically send the amount to your bank account or mail a check. You will also get an official letter explaining why and when you are being given this amount.
But if you have not filed the return yet, then you must file your 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
How much amount can you get?
The maximum amount is $1,400 per person. But how much you’ll get depends on several factors:
- Your filing status (e.g. single, married, head of household, etc.)
- Your annual income
- Whether you received the full amount in a previous stimulus check
Example:
- If you received a partial stimulus check in the past, you may now receive the rest of it.
- If your 2021 income was very low, you may receive the full $1,400.
- This could be your last chance
The deadline to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for your 2021 stimulus check is April 15, 2025. After that, the IRS will not give you this money, even if you are eligible. So don’t miss this opportunity.
Some common mistakes to avoid
Assuming you are not eligible – Many people think they won’t get a check when they actually are.
- Delay in filing returns – If you do not file by the last date, the amount will be lost.
- Giving wrong bank details – There may be a mistake in direct deposit.
- Filling wrong Recovery Rebate Credit – Claim the credit in the correct format.
Finally a piece of advice
If your 2021 income was low, you have missed the stimulus check, or you do not know whether you claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit or not – then definitely check your tax documents once.
This small effort can bring up to $1,400 to your account – which can be useful for any emergency expenses, bill payment, or small or big needs.
FAQs
1. What is the $1,400 stimulus check in 2025?
The $1,400 stimulus check refers to a potential federal or state relief payment for eligible individuals to help with financial hardship in 2025.
2. Is the $1,400 stimulus check confirmed for 2025?
As of now, no official confirmation has been given by the IRS or federal government. It may be under discussion or part of proposed legislation.
3. Who might qualify for the $1,400 stimulus payment in 2025?
Eligibility may include low-to-moderate income individuals, Social Security beneficiaries (like SSI, SSDI), and families with dependents—based on adjusted gross income.
4. Will Social Security recipients get this $1,400 stimulus check?
If approved, many proposals include seniors and Social Security recipients. Final eligibility will depend on the rules set by the issuing agency or bill.
5. How can I apply for the $1,400 stimulus check?
If it gets approved, most people will not need to apply. Payments will likely be issued automatically through IRS records or Social Security accounts.
