Millions of Americans still have a chance to claim up to $1,400 from the third-round Economic Impact Payment—but time is running out. If you missed out on your full stimulus check in 2021, you have until April 15, 2025, to file a 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. Whether you missed it because of a filing error, a move, or banking issues, this is your final opportunity to get your money.
Let’s break down what you need to know, how to claim your funds, and what mistakes to avoid to ensure you get paid quickly.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is not a new stimulus check. Instead, it allows you to claim any missing third-round stimulus money that was originally distributed under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. If you received a partial amount—or nothing at all—you can still get what you’re owed by filing a 2021 federal tax return.
Why You Might Have Missed Your Stimulus Payment
There are several common reasons people didn’t get their full payment:
- Not filing taxes in previous years
- Moving and missing IRS notices or payments
- Errors in bank account information
- IRS processing errors
According to the IRS, nearly one million Americans are still eligible to claim their third stimulus check.
Who Is Eligible to Claim the Credit?
Eligibility is very similar to prior stimulus rounds and is largely based on income. Here’s a quick guide:
| Filing Status | Full Payment if Income is Below | Partial Payment Phase-Out Ends at |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
Additional criteria include:
- You must have a valid Social Security Number.
- You cannot be claimed as a dependent by someone else.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
Even if you received a partial payment in 2021, you can still claim the difference.
How to Claim Your Stimulus Check
To get your money:
- File a 2021 federal tax return, even if you had little or no income.
- Look for the “Recovery Rebate Credit” section on the form.
- Calculate the amount you’re owed and enter it properly.
Important: Do not file a 2024 or 2025 tax return expecting to claim the 2021 stimulus. It must specifically be a 2021 return.
The deadline to file is April 15, 2025. After that, you permanently lose the chance to claim this money.
How Long Does It Take to Get Paid?
Once your 2021 return is accepted:
- E-filing speeds up processing, typically taking 4 to 6 weeks.
- Paper filing may take longer, especially during tax season.
- Payments started rolling out for late filers in late 2024 and will continue for early 2025 filers.
Stay Safe: Avoid Tax Scams
Criminals often exploit tax season to steal personal information. Remember:
- The IRS never initiates contact by email, text, or social media.
- If you’re unsure about a communication, contact the IRS directly through their official website.
FAQs
Is this a new stimulus check?
No, it’s the final chance to claim your missing 2021 stimulus money through the Recovery Rebate Credit.
How much can I get?
Up to $1,400 per eligible person.
How do I claim it?
File a 2021 federal tax return and complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section.
Can I claim it if I had no income?
Yes. Even if you earned $0, you are still eligible.
When is the deadline?
You must file your 2021 return by April 15, 2025.
