Millions of Americans received federal stimulus checks during the COVID-19 pandemic under programs like the CARES Act. But not everyone claimed their payments, especially those with low or no income who didn’t file tax returns at the time.
Today, April 15, 2025, is the final deadline to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, according to the IRS. If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, now is your last chance to receive this money—up to $1,400 per person—before it’s gone for good.
Meanwhile, in New York, there’s talk of a new state-level rebate program, but nothing has been approved yet. Let’s break it all down.
Federal Stimulus Checks: What’s Still Available?
The U.S. government issued three rounds of stimulus payments between 2020 and 2021. The third round, under the American Rescue Plan, included up to $1,400 per person based on Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
Here’s how eligibility worked:
- Full amount: For single filers with AGI up to $75,000
- Reduced amount: For AGI between $75,001 and $80,000
- No payment: If AGI was above $80,000
Many eligible people missed out because they didn’t file a 2021 tax return. But the IRS allows them to claim this money as the Recovery Rebate Credit—until today.
Why April 15, 2025, Matters
This date is extremely important. The IRS confirmed that April 15, 2025, is the last day to file a 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
After this deadline, any unclaimed stimulus money becomes government property and cannot be recovered. An IRS spokesperson recently said:
“The deadline will not be extended again.”
If you still haven’t filed, the IRS Free Tax Prep tools are your best option today. But act fast—you must file by midnight to receive the credit.
Is New York Offering Any New Stimulus Payments?
As of April 15, 2025, New York State is not offering any new stimulus checks. However, in December 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul proposed a $3 billion “Inflation Rebate” program, with payments ranging from $300 to $500, based on income and marital status.
Status of the New York Plan
- Not approved yet: The plan has not passed through the State Legislature
- Delays: Payments were originally planned for February 2025, but could now happen in fall 2025, if approved
- Recipients: Expected to benefit 8.6 million taxpayers, including 3.6 million in NYC
A New York Treasury official confirmed:
“There are no active stimulus payments for 2025. The proposal remains under review.”
What Do We Know About the State Rebate So Far?
Though still under negotiation, here’s what’s known about the proposed rebate:
- Amount: Between $300 and $500, depending on household income
- Focus: Priority to be given to lower-middle-income families
- Unconfirmed criteria: Exact income limits and eligibility details are not final
- Uncertain date: No fixed date for check distribution yet
Advocates say more clarity is needed.
“People need to know if they should prepare documentation or how to plan for this possible help,” said a spokesperson from NYC Fair Housing Coalition.
Will This Be Enough?
Experts say that while a $300–$500 check may provide short-term relief, it’s not a long-term solution.
“It is a useful palliative, but it must be complemented with employment and rent control policies,” says economist Mariana López.