Deadline Approaches for Claiming Your $1,400 Stimulus Check from 2021

If you didn’t receive your $1,400 stimulus check during the pandemic, there’s still time to claim it — but not much. The IRS has set a final deadline of April 15, 2025, for eligible Americans to get their missing payments. More than 1.1 million people still haven’t claimed theirs.

Here’s everything you need to know to find out if you qualify, and how to claim your check before the window closes.

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What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check?

The $1,400 payments were part of the American Rescue Plan Act passed in 2021 to provide financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. While most eligible Americans received their payments automatically, some individuals were missed—especially those who didn’t file a tax return in 2021.

To help fix that, the IRS offered the Recovery Rebate Credit — a refundable credit that allows eligible taxpayers to claim their missing stimulus payments by filing a 2021 tax return.

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Who’s Eligible to Claim the $1,400 Now?

You may still be eligible if:

• You did not file a 2021 federal tax return
• You were eligible based on your income and filing status
• You didn’t receive the full $1,400 payment (or any of it)

Income limits for full payment:

• Single filers: Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) under $75,000
• Married filing jointly: AGI under $150,000 (eligible for $2,800 total)
• Dependents: Each dependent qualified for an additional $1,400, regardless of age

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How to Check If You Already Claimed It

Wondering if you already received or claimed the credit? Here’s how to find out:

1. Review your 2021 tax return – Look for the "Recovery Rebate Credit" line.
2. Contact the IRS – They can confirm whether the credit was claimed and issued.
3. Use IRS online tools – You may be able to access your IRS account to review past filings.

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How to Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit

If you didn’t file a 2021 tax return, you’ll need to do so as soon as possible—even if you’re not otherwise required to file.

Steps to claim:

1. File your 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025
2. On the return, claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for the amount you missed
3. Submit electronically or by mail

Once processed, the IRS will either direct deposit the funds into your bank account or send you a paper check to the address on file.

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Why April 15, 2025 Matters

The IRS only allows taxpayers to claim refunds or credits within three years of the original filing deadline. That means April 15, 2025, is your last chance to claim your $1,400 stimulus payment tied to the 2021 tax year.

After that date, the money is no longer available — even if you were eligible.

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Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss Out

With less than 30 days left, the clock is ticking for over a million Americans. If you or someone you know may have missed this crucial payment, take action now.

Filing your 2021 return could mean up to $1,400 per person back in your pocket — and it's likely the last chance to get it.

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Need Help?

Visit IRS.gov for tools and information, or speak with a trusted tax professional to guide you through the process.

$1,400 Stimulus Check: April 15 Deadline Approaches for Over 1.1 Million Americans

The clock is ticking for more than 1.1 million Americans who still haven’t claimed their $1,400 stimulus checks from the COVID-19 pandemic relief program. The IRS deadline is April 15, 2025, and after that, the opportunity will be gone for good.

Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Payment?

Eligibility primarily applies to individuals who did not file a 2021 federal tax return. If you missed filing that year, you may still qualify through the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit.

If approved, the IRS will send payments either by direct deposit or paper check to the address or bank account on file.

What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?

The Recovery Rebate Credit is a refundable tax credit designed for people who didn’t receive one or more of the original COVID-19 stimulus checks. In December 2024, the IRS began reissuing payments to eligible individuals who filed a return but didn’t claim the credit.

Those who corrected the oversight by filing an amended return received their payments in January 2025. Others still have a chance—if they act before the April deadline.

How to Check If You Already Received the Credit

• Review your 2021 tax return for a line item labeled "Recovery Rebate Credit".
• If you’re unsure, contact the IRS directly for confirmation.

Income Thresholds for Full Eligibility

To receive the full $1,400 payment, your income must fall below certain thresholds:

• Single filers: AGI under $75,000
• Married couples filing jointly: Combined AGI under $150,000 (eligible for $2,800)
• Dependents: Eligible for $1,400 each, regardless of age

April 15, 2025: The Final Cutoff

The IRS allows individuals to claim refunds or tax credits for up to three years from the original deadline. This makes April 15, 2025 the final date to claim any remaining COVID-19 stimulus funds tied to 2021 taxes.

With less than a month remaining, eligible taxpayers should act immediately to ensure they don’t miss out on this one-time opportunity.

Need Help?

If you're unsure of your eligibility or how to file, visit IRS.gov or speak with a licensed tax professional.