During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government passed the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, which included a $1,400 stimulus check to help people facing financial stress. While the official deadline to claim this check was April 15, 2025, some people still have time left to file their 2021 tax return and receive the payment.
This may come as a surprise to many, but certain groups of Americans still qualify for an extension and can get this money if they act fast. If you’re a military member, living in a disaster zone, or living abroad, this article will explain everything you need to know.
What Was the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
The $1,400 stimulus payment was part of the U.S. government’s financial support during the pandemic. It was sent out in 2021 and was meant to help Americans with daily expenses like rent, food, or medical bills. If you didn’t receive it back then, the only way to claim it now is by filing your 2021 tax return and requesting the Recovery Rebate Credit.
For most people, the deadline to claim this credit has already passed. However, some groups still have more time.
Who Can Still Claim the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
Even though the IRS sent leftover money to the U.S. Treasury after April 15, 2025, some people can still claim the check if they meet special conditions:
1. U.S. Military Members in Combat Zones
If you served in a combat zone, you automatically get an extra 180 days to file after leaving the zone. Plus, you get back any time you had left to file when you entered the zone. So, if your extension goes beyond April 15, 2025, you can still file your 2021 tax return and get the stimulus.
2. People Living in Federal Disaster Zones
If you lived in a U.S. area that was officially declared a disaster zone (due to wildfires, hurricanes, floods, etc.), the IRS may have given you more time to file. For example, in states like California, Kentucky, or Tennessee, the deadline could be extended until October or even November 2025, depending on your county.
3. Americans Living Abroad (Expats)
If you were living outside the U.S. on the original deadline, you got an automatic 2-month extension, which pushes the deadline to June 15, 2025. If you also requested a formal extension, you could have until October 15, 2025 to file and still claim the check.
How to Claim the $1,400 Stimulus Payment Now
If you’re eligible for an extension, here’s what you need to do:
- File your 2021 tax return as soon as possible. Use Form 1040 and make sure to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- You can do this online using any IRS-authorized tax software, or get help from a certified tax professional.
- If you need help, call the IRS at 800-829-1040.
Don’t delay. If your special extension period ends, you may lose this chance forever. This money is still available—but only if you act in time.