If you missed out on the third-round stimulus check back in 2021, the IRS is offering a final opportunity to claim what’s rightfully yours — up to $1,400 per eligible person. But there’s a hard deadline: April 15, 2025. Whether you never filed taxes that year or didn’t receive the full amount, you can still collect the payment through the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return. Here’s exactly how to claim it before time runs out.
Quick Overview: What This Payment Is
This isn’t a new stimulus round — it’s your last chance to claim money from the third Economic Impact Payment (EIP3), issued under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Many people missed it due to non-filing, outdated info, or partial payments. Nearly 1 million eligible Americans still haven’t claimed theirs.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
| Claim Deadline | April 15, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Income-based + filing status + valid SSN |
| Delivery Method | Direct deposit or paper check |
| How to Claim | File a 2021 federal tax return with the Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Where to File | IRS.gov |
How Much Can You Get?
If you meet the eligibility guidelines, you may receive up to $1,400 for yourself — plus $1,400 per eligible dependent.
Income Limits for Full Payment:
| Filing Status | AGI Limit for Full Payment | Phase-Out Ends at |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Up to $75,000 | Fully phased out at $80,000 |
| Head of Household | Up to $112,500 | Fully phased out at $120,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $150,000 | Fully phased out at $160,000 |
If your income was slightly over the full-payment threshold, you may still receive a reduced amount.
Do You Qualify?
To claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2021 tax return
- File a 2021 tax return, even if you had little or no income
You can also claim this credit if:
- You received only part of your third stimulus check in 2021
- You had a new child or dependent in 2021 who wasn’t counted at the time
How to Claim the $1,400 Credit
Step 1: File Your 2021 Tax Return
If you haven’t filed for 2021, that’s your first step. Use IRS Free File, TurboTax, H&R Block, or another tax software. Even if you had no income, you still need to file.
Step 2: Complete Form 1040
Look for the “Recovery Rebate Credit” section on your 2021 Form 1040. This is where you claim any amount you missed. Enter your personal and financial info carefully to avoid delays.
Step 3: Submit to the IRS
E-filing is fastest, but paper returns are also accepted. Be sure to submit by April 15, 2025 — no extensions are offered for this credit.
When to Expect Your Payment
After your 2021 return is processed, most payments are issued in 4 to 6 weeks.
| Delivery Method | Estimated Timing |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Fastest (4–5 weeks post-filing) |
| Paper Check | Slower (6+ weeks) |
If you filed late in 2024 or early in 2025, you’re still eligible — as long as the IRS receives your return by the April 15, 2025 deadline.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Claim the right year: This credit only applies to 2021. Filing 2022 or 2023 won’t help you here.
- Don’t skip the rebate section: Missing this part of the form means missing your payment.
- Double-check your SSN and filing status: Mistakes can delay or void your refund.
- File early: Don’t wait until April 15 — give yourself time to fix any issues.
Protect Yourself from Scams
Unfortunately, IRS-related scams spike during stimulus and credit periods. Stay safe with these reminders:
- The IRS never calls, emails, or texts asking for payment or personal info.
- Never pay someone promising to “speed up” your rebate.
- Use only official tools, like the IRS Get My Payment tool.
- Report scams to [email protected].
What If You Already Filed?
If you filed a 2021 return but didn’t receive the full third payment, you may still be eligible for the difference. Check your IRS account or transcript to see what was credited and adjust accordingly if an error was made.
The clock is ticking on the Recovery Rebate Credit — and for many, this is the last opportunity to claim up to $1,400. Whether you missed the third stimulus check entirely or only received a portion, filing your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, could put hundreds (or thousands) back in your pocket. Take action now, file accurately, and get the money you deserve.
FAQs
What if I had a child in 2021?
You may be eligible for an additional $1,400 for each child born or added as a dependent that year.
Is the $1,400 taxable?
No. The stimulus check and Recovery Rebate Credit are not considered taxable income.
I already received a partial check — can I still file?
Yes. You can claim the difference between what you received and what you were owed.
