Many Americans might not know they’re still eligible for the $1,400 stimulus payment from 2021. This payment was part of the U.S. government’s help during the COVID-19 crisis, and some people never received it. The IRS is giving a last call for those who missed this benefit—but there’s a firm deadline.
If you think you didn’t get the money or didn’t get the full amount, you can still claim it. But you need to file a 2021 tax return to receive it, even if you didn’t have income that year. Over 1 million people still haven’t claimed their payment, and time is running out.
The final deadline to file and get this money is April 15, 2025. After that, any unclaimed funds will go back to the government. So if you think you qualify, it’s important to act fast and secure your payment.
What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Payment?
In 2021, the U.S. government passed the American Rescue Plan, which included a third round of stimulus checks to help people during the pandemic. The payment was up to $1,400 per person and was sent by direct deposit, check, or debit card.
If someone didn’t get their full payment—or missed it completely—they can still get it by claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
Important Deadline: April 15, 2025
Taxpayers usually have three years to claim tax refunds or credits. For the 2021 tax year, that three-year window ends April 15, 2025. This is the last chance to file and receive the $1,400 stimulus money.
If you miss this deadline, the IRS will not allow late claims. The unclaimed money will be returned to the U.S. Treasury.
Who Is Eligible to Claim It?
You may qualify for the full $1,400 payment if your income in 2021 was:
- Less than $75,000 for single filers
- Less than $150,000 for married couples filing together
- Plus, $1,400 for each dependent, regardless of their age
If your income was higher, you might still get a partial amount. But those earning above $80,000 (single) or $160,000 (joint) were not eligible.
Didn’t File a 2021 Return? You Still Can
Even if you had little or no income in 2021 and didn’t file a tax return, you can still get your stimulus money. You’ll just need to file a late 2021 tax return before the deadline.
The IRS offers Free File tools online for people with low income or simple tax situations. You can also get help from local tax clinics or tax professionals.
How to Claim the Rebate
To get your payment:
- File a 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025
- Make sure you fill in the Recovery Rebate Credit section
- If you already filed but didn’t claim the credit, check your records or IRS account
- In some cases, the IRS may have sent automatic refunds—but it’s best to double-check
Lost or Missing Check? Here’s What to Do
If you think the IRS sent your payment but you never received it:
- Call the IRS at 800-919-9835
- Submit IRS Form 3911 to report a missing check or direct deposit
- If it turns out you were never paid, the only way to get your money is by filing a 2021 return with the Recovery Rebate Credit
States with the Most People Still Waiting
Some states have the highest number of residents who haven’t claimed their stimulus money yet:
- California – 116,300 people, average refund: $600
- Texas – 102,200 people, average refund: $810
- New York – 73,000 people, average refund: $995
- Florida – 69,800 people, average refund: $732
If you live in one of these states, chances are many others like you haven’t filed yet either.
Don’t Wait—File Today
This stimulus money can provide much-needed relief, especially for low-income families. But it will only be available until April 15, 2025. Don’t miss your opportunity.
Visit the IRS website, use their Free File options, or speak with a tax expert to file your 2021 return. It’s your money—make sure you get it before time runs out.