Stimulus Returns: As of April 12, 2025, millions of eligible Americans still have the chance to claim the missing $1,400 stimulus payment through the IRS’s Recovery Rebate Credit. This one-time opportunity applies to those who didn’t receive the third round of Economic Impact Payments issued in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. But time is running out—the deadline to file is April 15, 2025.
Stimulus Returns
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $1,400 via Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Deadline | April 15, 2025 |
| Eligible Tax Years | 2021 Tax Return |
| Eligibility Income Limit | $75,000 (single), $150,000 (married), $112,500 (head of household) |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed check based on 2023 tax return info |
| Official IRS Link | irs.gov/recovery-rebate-credit |
If you didn’t receive the third stimulus check back in 2021, this is your last chance to get the $1,400 payment. All it takes is a 2021 tax return filed before April 15, 2025. With Free File tools, direct deposit options, and bonus tax credits available, there’s more than one reason to act fast.
What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check and Why Is It Back in 2025?
In 2021, the IRS issued a third round of stimulus checks worth up to $1,400 per eligible person under the American Rescue Plan Act. However, many people either didn’t receive the payment due to IRS errors, missed tax filings, or life changes (like income loss or new dependents).
To address this, the IRS allowed individuals to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on their 2021 tax return. But if you still haven’t filed that return, April 15, 2025 is your final shot.
Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Stimulus in April 2025?
You may be eligible if you meet all of the following:
- You did NOT receive the third stimulus payment in 2021.
- You did NOT claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return.
- Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) in 2021 was:
- Up to $75,000 if single.
- Up to $150,000 if married and filing jointly.
- Up to $112,500 if head of household.
- You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien for the entire year of 2021.
- You had a valid Social Security Number.
Who Doesn’t Qualify?
If your 2021 AGI exceeded these thresholds:
- Over $80,000 for single filers
- Over $160,000 for married couples filing jointly
…you’re likely ineligible for the credit.
For more details, visit the IRS Recovery Rebate FAQ.
Stimulus Returns: How to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check
1. If You Already Filed Your 2021 Tax Return
- The IRS is automatically reviewing returns.
- If you’re owed the $1,400, they’ll send it by direct deposit or check.
2. If You Haven’t Filed Your 2021 Return
- You must file it before April 15, 2025.
- Use IRS Free File (link here) to submit your taxes online at no cost.
3. File Electronically for Faster Payment
- Electronic returns are processed faster than paper returns.
- Refunds usually come within 21 days if direct deposit is selected.
How Will the IRS Send My Payment?
The IRS uses your latest bank or mailing information:
- If you filed your 2023 return, they’ll use that for account info.
- Make sure your direct deposit details are up to date.
Tip: Log in to your IRS Online Account to double-check your contact and banking details.
Additional Benefits: Could You Get More?
Many who qualify for the $1,400 may also be eligible for:
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- Up to $6,728 for low to moderate-income families with children.
- Even if you don’t owe taxes, this is a refundable credit, meaning you can still get the money.
Learn more: irs.gov/eitc
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- Worth up to $3,600 per child under age 6, or $3,000 for children 6–17 in 2021.
- Can be claimed when filing your 2021 return.
If you missed these benefits, now is the time to claim them with your 2021 return.
Important IRS Resources
Here are some official tools to guide your filing:
- Recovery Rebate Credit Info
- Free IRS Filing Portal
- IRS Refund Tracker
- EITC Assistant Tool
$17,400 Federal Payment Alert: Not SSI or SSDI; Check If You Qualify!
Surprise $5920 Payment Coming in April 2025? Social Security & SSDI Updates
$700 Centrelink Payment Confirmed for 2025: Will you get it? Check Eligibility
FAQs on Stimulus Returns
Q1. What happens if I miss the April 15, 2025 deadline?
A: You will permanently lose the ability to claim the $1,400 stimulus payment.
Q2. Can I still get the stimulus if I’m a dependent?
A: No. Only individuals who are not claimed as dependents and meet the income criteria qualify.
Q3. Is the stimulus payment taxable?
A: No, it is not considered taxable income and will not affect your tax liability.
Q4. Will this affect my 2024 or 2025 tax return?
A: No. This payment is based solely on your 2021 tax situation.
Q5. Can I file a paper return?
A: Yes, but electronic filing is faster and safer, especially this close to the deadline.
