During the Corona epidemic, the US government issued stimulus checks three times to provide relief to the public. Most people got this third check – $1,400 – in the year 2021. But did you get it? If you didn’t, don’t panic. The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) is still giving you one last chance to get this money – but for this you have to take necessary steps before April 15, 2025.
What Was the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
This stimulus check was issued in 2021 under the American Rescue Plan, which was passed by President Joe Biden. Its purpose was to provide relief to people affected financially during the pandemic.
Under this scheme, an amount of $1,400 was sent to every eligible person. Although more than 160 million people got this money, there were still millions of people who did not get this payment for some reason.
Why Did Some People Not Get This Check?
This happened for several reasons:
- Some people did not file a tax return in 2021 because their income was too low.
- Some people filed a tax return, but forgot to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC).
- In some cases, the check was missed due to a technical or document-related error.
How Can You Get This Money Now? Through Recovery Rebate Credit!
The IRS has found a way out – if you missed the stimulus check in 2021, you can still get it through the Recovery Rebate Credit. For this you have to:
- File a 2021 tax return (if you haven’t done it earlier)
- Or amend the old tax return
But remember: Its last date is April 15, 2025. After this you cannot ask for this money.
Who Can Still Get This Money?
You may be eligible if you fall into one of two categories:
If You Filed a Tax Return in 2021 but Didn’t Claim the RRC:
The IRS may review your filed information and send you a payment if you’re found to be eligible. You may also need to file an amended tax return if necessary.
If You Didn’t File a Tax Return in 2021:
You can still claim the RRC by filing a 2021 tax return. You just need to make sure the return is filed before April 15, 2025.
How to Find Out If You Already Received the $1,400 Payment?
- Look at your 2021 tax return (Form 1040 or 1040-SR)
- It will look for Recovery Rebate Credit on line 30
- If it’s blank or says $0, and you don’t remember whether you received this amount by check or direct deposit, chances are you didn’t receive the money
You can also check the status by logging into your account online on the IRS website or request a 2021 tax transcript.
How Much Money Can You Get?
- Single person – $1,400
- Married couple (joint filing) – $2,800
- Each dependent (child or adult) – $1,400 additional
Income Limits:
- Single filer: Full amount up to $75,000
- Head of household: Up to $112,500
- Married joint filer: Up to $150,000
(Amount decreases if income is above this and those above $80,000/$160,000 get nothing)
What Do I Have to Do to Claim the Amount?
If You Filed a 2021 Return:
The IRS can review your return on its own and send a payment if you’re eligible.
If You Didn’t File a 2021 Tax Return:
- File now – using Form 1040 or 1040-SR
- Enter your eligible amount on line 30
- Submit the return by April 15, 2025
You can use the IRS’s Free File service (if you have low income) or hire a professional tax filer.
Why Is the Deadline Important?
Federal law requires that a refund or credit be claimed within 3 years from the original date of the tax return. The 2021 return was due on April 18, 2022 – so April 15, 2025 is the deadline.
If you miss it, the IRS won’t make a payment, even if it’s valid.
The Real Impact – How Big of a Difference Can It Make?
Suppose you are a single parent and you earned very little in 2021, so did not file a return.
If you file a return now:
- $1,400 for yourself
- $1,400 for each child
- Along with other exemptions like Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit
You can get a total refund of $5,000 or more.
There Are Other Benefits of Filing a 2021 Tax Return
- You can get a refund of taxes deducted from your salary
- You can claim many other tax credits, such as:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- Education Credit
- Dependent Care Credit
- Used as income proof for future government benefits
- Protection from identity theft as your name is updated in IRS records
Conclusion
If you haven’t received your $1,400 stimulus check, you still have a chance.
The IRS is giving you one last chance – get this money by filing your tax return by April 15, 2025.
It’s not just a check – it can be your family’s security, your financial stability, and relief in a time of need.
FAQs
1. What is the $1,400 stimulus check in 2025?
It is a potential federal or state-provided relief payment intended to support eligible individuals facing economic challenges in 2025.
2. Who qualifies for the $1,400 stimulus check?
Eligibility may depend on factors such as income level, tax filing status, Social Security or disability benefit status, and residency.
3. Is this a federal or state-issued payment?
That depends on the source. Some states may offer their own rebates, while others may come from federal legislation. Always check your local or national government announcements.
4. When will the $1,400 payments be issued in 2025?
If approved, payments are typically sent out in waves. Check official government schedules or IRS announcements for specific dates.
5. Do Social Security, SSDI, or SSI recipients qualify?
In previous programs, many recipients of federal benefits were included. It’s expected they could be eligible again, but official confirmation is needed.
