More than 1.1 million Americans have yet to claim their $1,400 stimulus checks from the 2021 pandemic relief program, and the deadline to do so is fast approaching. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set April 15, 2025, as the final date to claim the payment, but only those who did not file a 2021 tax return may be eligible. The funds will be distributed via direct deposit or paper check to the address on file. This payment is part of the Recovery Rebate Credit, designed to help individuals who missed out on earlier COVID-19 stimulus payments.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a refundable tax credit for individuals who did not receive one or more of the COVID-19 stimulus payments issued during the pandemic. The IRS began issuing these payments in December 2024 after identifying many eligible taxpayers who had not claimed the credit on their 2021 tax returns.
To check eligibility, individuals can review their 2021 tax return for a line item labeled “Recovery Rebate Credit.” If unsure, they can contact the IRS directly to confirm whether the credit was claimed.
Who Is Eligible for the 1,400StimulusCheck?
According to CNBC, the IRS typically allows individuals to claim refunds or credits within three years of the original tax filing deadline. This makes April 15, 2025, the final opportunity to claim the stimulus payment.
How to Claim Your Stimulus Payment
If you believe you are eligible but have not yet claimed your payment, here’s what you need to do:
- Review Your 2021 Tax Return: Check for the Recovery Rebate Credit line to see if the credit was claimed.
- Contact the IRS: If you’re unsure, reach out to the IRS for clarification.
- File an Amended Return: If you missed claiming the credit, you may need to file an amended return before the deadline.
The IRS will distribute payments via direct deposit or mail a paper check to the address on file.
Why Are So Many Payments Still Unclaimed?
Despite efforts by the IRS to notify eligible taxpayers, many individuals remain unaware of their eligibility. Some may have overlooked the credit when filing their 2021 taxes, while others may not have filed a return at all. The IRS has urged taxpayers to act quickly, as the April 15 deadline is less than 30 days away.
What Happens After the Deadline?
Once the April 15, 2025, deadline passes, unclaimed stimulus funds will no longer be available. This makes it crucial for eligible individuals to act now. The IRS has emphasized that this is the final opportunity to claim the payment, as the three-year window for refunds and credits will close.
Additional Resources and Support
For those needing assistance, the IRS website offers detailed guidance on the Recovery Rebate Credit and how to claim it. Taxpayers can also seek help from tax professionals or free filing services to ensure they don’t miss out on this opportunity.
Time is running out to claim your $1,400 stimulus check from 2021. If you haven’t yet received your payment, review your 2021 tax return or contact the IRS to confirm your eligibility. Don’t miss this final chance to secure the funds you’re entitled to.
