If you missed the third stimulus check back in 2021, you still have a chance to claim it—but not for long. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has confirmed that April 15, 2025 is the final deadline to file your 2021 tax return and claim the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit.
This payment was part of the U.S. government’s COVID-19 relief plan and was meant to help Americans during the pandemic. Though most people have already received their money, a small group of eligible individuals still hasn’t filed their return to claim it.
Let’s break down who qualifies and how to claim it before it’s too late.
Who Can Still Claim the 2021 Stimulus Check?
The Recovery Rebate Credit allows those who didn’t receive the third stimulus payment in 2021 to still claim it through a late tax return for that year.
Eligibility Requirements:
1. You didn’t receive the third stimulus check in 2021
2. Your income was within limits in 2021:
- Up to $80,000 for single filers
- Up to $120,000 for heads of household
- Up to $160,000 for married couples filing jointly
3. You were not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
4. You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021
The maximum amount is $1,400 per person and $2,800 for a couple filing jointly.
How to Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
To receive this stimulus payment now, you must file your 2021 federal tax return. The IRS allows you to submit it even if you had no income or were not otherwise required to file.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Collect your income records from 2021 (W-2, 1099 forms, etc.)
- Download Form 1040 or 1040-SR from the IRS website
- Fill out Line 30 of the form with the amount you didn’t receive
- Submit your return electronically or by mail by April 15, 2025
If you’re due a refund, filing late won’t bring any penalty. But if you owe taxes, you may have to pay 0.5% interest per month after the deadline.
What Other Tax Credits Can You Claim with Your 2021 Return?
Even if you don’t qualify for the $1,400 check, filing your 2021 return can give access to other expanded pandemic-era tax benefits, such as:
- Child Tax Credit: Up to $3,600 per qualifying child
- Dependent Care Credit: Up to $8,000 in qualifying expenses
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Amount varies based on income and family size
These credits can reduce the amount of tax you owe—or increase your refund.
Need Help Filing? Free Options Are Available
If you’re unsure how to file your 2021 return, there are free support programs available:
- IRS Free File: Online platform for easy filing
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Free in-person help for incomes below $64,000
- IRS helpline: Available in English and Spanish for guidance
Visit irs.gov for all the tools and information.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t file by April 15, 2025, the unclaimed credit will expire forever. It will be forfeited to the U.S. Treasury, and you will not be able to recover it in the future.
So, if you or someone you know is eligible, don’t delay—file today and claim the money you’re entitled to.