If you missed the third round of stimulus checks back in 2021, you may still have a shot at claiming your $1,400 payment—but only if you act by July 20, 2025. The IRS is urging eligible individuals to file their 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit before the deadline.
Whether you’re a retiree, student, or someone who didn’t file in 2021, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step-by-step, so you don’t leave this money on the table.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Stimulus Amount | $1,400 per eligible person |
| Deadline to Claim | July 20, 2025 |
| How to Claim | File a 2021 tax return with Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Automatic Payments? | Yes, for some who previously filed but missed the credit |
| Official Resource | IRS.gov – Recovery Rebate Credit info |
2025 Stimulus Credit All About
In 2021, the third round of stimulus payments was distributed as part of the American Rescue Plan. Most people received their payments automatically. But over 1 million Americans didn’t—many because they didn’t file a 2021 tax return or weren’t aware they qualified.
Now, the IRS is giving these individuals a second chance to claim the money through the Recovery Rebate Credit, but only by filing a 2021 return before July 20, 2025.
Who’s Eligible?
Eligibility is based on your 2021 tax situation. Here’s what to check:
Income Limits
| Filing Status | Full Payment Up To | Phases Out At |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
You can still qualify even if you had zero income in 2021, as long as you meet the other requirements.
Other Conditions
- You must have a valid Social Security number.
- You cannot be claimed as a dependent on another person’s return.
- You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021.
- You didn’t already receive the full third stimulus payment.
How to Claim the $1,400 Payment
Here’s what you need to do before the July 20, 2025 deadline:
Step 1
You’ll need:
- Social Security numbers for yourself and dependents
- Any 2021 tax forms (W-2s, 1099s)
- Government-issued ID
- Letter 6475 from the IRS (if you got it)
Step 2
Choose one of these options:
- IRS Free File (for incomes under $73,000)
- Tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block
- VITA sites (free in-person help for low-income filers and seniors)
- A professional tax preparer if your case is complex
Step 3
Be sure to answer the question about prior stimulus payments. The form will calculate how much you’re still owed.
Step 4
This is a firm IRS deadline. If you miss it, you forfeit the credit—and the money.
Who’s Already Getting Paid Automatically?
In December 2024, the IRS began sending automatic catch-up payments to over 1 million people who filed their 2021 returns but didn’t properly claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
If you’re in that group, the IRS is likely using your 2021 tax details to send the payment directly to your bank or mailing address. If your contact info has changed, update it immediately via your IRS online account.
Real-Life Examples
Maria, a single mom who didn’t file in 2021, submitted her return in early 2025 and got $1,400 within weeks.
James and Tanya, retirees who thought they weren’t eligible because they only received Social Security, filed a late 2021 return and received $2,800 combined.
Aiden, a part-time worker during college, never received the third check. He filed retroactively and got the full payment.
Helpful Tips to Make It Easy
- Use the IRS Get My Payment tool to check if you already got it.
- Keep a folder labeled “2021 Taxes” to stay organized.
- Look for IRS Letter 6475, which tells you what you received in 2021.
- Visit VITA Locator for help finding free filing centers.
- Contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you run into filing issues.
Don’t assume you’re not eligible. Even if you didn’t work in 2021, you might still qualify. Take 30 minutes, file your return, and secure your $1,400 before the window closes for good.
FAQs
What’s the deadline to claim the $1,400 check?
You must file a 2021 tax return by July 15, 2025.
Do I qualify if I had no income?
Yes, even zero-income individuals may qualify.
Where do I file my 2021 tax return?
Use IRS Free File, VITA, or tax software services.
What if I already filed in 2021?
You may get an automatic payment if you missed the credit.
Is the $1,400 check taxable?
No, it’s not considered taxable income.
