During the last few years, the U.S. government launched many support programs to help families facing tough financial times. One of the biggest programs was the stimulus checks, which gave money directly to people who needed it. These payments helped many, but not everyone got them.
The third stimulus check, which offered up to $1,400 per person, was approved in 2021. Even though that was years ago, millions of people never received the money—some didn’t know they qualified, others didn’t file their taxes, or missed the Recovery Rebate Credit form. The good news is that you can still claim this payment, but only before April 15, 2025.
Who Can Still Claim the $1,400 Stimulus Payment?
If you never received the third stimulus check, you may still be eligible. Here’s who can claim it:
- People who did not file a tax return in 2021, especially those who weren’t required to file.
- People who filed their taxes but forgot to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- Low-income or no-income individuals who didn’t know they qualified.
- If any of these apply to you, the IRS still allows you to file a late 2021 tax return and claim your money. You must do this before
- April 15, 2025. After this date, your chance to get the check will be gone forever.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is the official way to get your stimulus money if you missed it earlier. When you file your 2021 tax return, there is a section to claim this credit. If you qualify, the IRS will send you the full payment of up to $1,400 per person.
Even if you had dependents (like children), you can also claim extra money for them, as long as they were in your care during 2021.
How Will the IRS Pay You?
If you already filed your 2021 taxes but didn’t claim the credit, don’t worry. The IRS says they will automatically send out payments starting January 2025—but only if they have your correct address or bank account details.
So, check your situation now. Make sure your contact info is up to date. If needed, you can file an amended return to include the missing credit.
How to File Your 2021 Tax Return Now
If you never filed a 2021 return, don’t delay. You can still file it and claim your money:
- You can file it yourself online,
- Or get free help at authorized IRS community centers or tax help sites.
- Many of those who missed the payment are low-income individuals, including students, seniors, or part-time workers who thought they didn’t need to file.
Once you file, the IRS will check your return and send you the money if you qualify. It’s a legal payment you are entitled to, so don’t skip it.
Don’t Miss the Deadline
The deadline to claim your third stimulus payment is April 15, 2025. After that, the IRS will no longer process requests for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. That means if you don’t act now, you could miss out on $1,400 or more—money that is legally yours.
So don’t wait. Check your records, talk to a tax expert if needed, and file your return before the deadline. You can still receive the money that was meant to help during hard times.