Millions of Americans are at risk of missing out on a $1,400 stimulus payment from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) if they do not take action before the April 15, 2025, deadline.
This stimulus check, which was part of the third round of Economic Impact Payments issued during the COVID-19 pandemic, is still available to eligible individuals who never claimed it.
With the clock ticking, here’s everything you need to know to determine if you qualify and how to secure your payment before it’s too late.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
The IRS has outlined specific eligibility criteria for those who may still claim the Recovery Rebate Credit linked to the stimulus check:
- Non-Filers of 2021 Tax Returns
- If you did not file a tax return for 2021, you may still be eligible for the $1,400 stimulus.
- Individuals with low or no income who were not required to file taxes may still claim the payment by submitting a return before the deadline.
- More details are available on the official IRS website.
- Income Thresholds for Full Payment
- To receive the full $1,400 stimulus, your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) must be:
- $75,000 or less for single filers
- $150,000 or less for married couples filing jointly
- Those earning above these limits will see a gradual reduction in the amount received.
- The payment phases out entirely at $80,000 for individuals and $160,000 for couples.
- To receive the full $1,400 stimulus, your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) must be:
IRS Is Sending Automatic Payments—But Not to Everyone
The IRS has already identified one million taxpayers who filed their 2021 returns but failed to claim the stimulus check.
To correct this oversight, the IRS began issuing automatic payments in December 2024, with most recipients receiving their funds via direct deposit or paper checks by January 2025.
However, if you never filed a 2021 return, the IRS will not automatically send your payment. You must file before April 15, 2025, to receive the money.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
The April 15 deadline is final. If eligible individuals do not claim the stimulus check by filing their 2021 tax return, the funds will be forfeited.
Once the deadline passes, the IRS will not issue any refunds for the 2021 tax year, and unclaimed stimulus payments will revert to the U.S. Treasury.
How to Claim the $1,400 Stimulus Check Before April 15
If you suspect that you are owed a stimulus check, follow these steps to claim it:
1. File Your 2021 Tax Return Immediately
- Even if you don’t usually file taxes, submit a 2021 federal tax return before April 15, 2025.
- You can file electronically using IRS Free File at www.irs.gov/FreeFile.
- Paper filers should mail their returns as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline.
2. Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
- When filing your 2021 tax return, ensure you claim the Recovery Rebate Credit to receive the $1,400 stimulus check.
- The IRS provides an online tool to assist with this process at the Recovery Rebate Credit Page.
3. Check IRS Tools for Payment Status
- If you previously filed a 2021 return but did not receive the payment, check your IRS transcript to verify whether you need to take further action.
- Visit the IRS Get My Payment tool for more information.
Where to Get Help?
For individuals who need assistance:
- IRS Helpline: Call 800-829-1040 for inquiries about your stimulus check.
- Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs): Find your local office at IRS Office Locator.
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Free tax help is available at www.irs.gov/VITA.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss Out!
The $1,400 stimulus check could provide crucial financial relief, but time is running out. If you haven’t received this payment and meet the eligibility criteria, filing your 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025, is the only way to secure your money.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Himanshu Sharma writes for Weekend Spy, focusing on recruitment, government schemes, and current affairs. He is dedicated to making complex information accessible to readers.
Himanshu enjoys playing chess, hiking, and trying new recipes, always seeking ways to combine his love for writing with his passion for exploration. Connect with Drop him an email at [email protected].
