Millions of Americans are still eligible to receive a stimulus payment of up to $1,400, but the window to claim it is closing fast.
The IRS recently reminded individuals that they must file their 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025—this year’s Tax Day—to be eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
This credit covers those who missed the third round of stimulus payments issued during the COVID-19 pandemic under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
Those who qualify and have filed their 2021 return may receive their payment via paper check, based on the banking information provided in their 2023 tax return. However, failing to file by the deadline means losing the opportunity to receive the payment altogether.
Eligibility for the full $1,400 depends on your adjusted gross income (AGI) in 2021.
- Single filers: Full payment if AGI was $75,000 or less; phases out at $80,000.
- Married couples filing jointly: Full $2,800 if combined income was $150,000 or less; phases out at $160,000.
- Dependents of any age also qualify for the full amount if eligible.
The IRS emphasized that no extensions or automatic payments will be offered for those who miss the April 15 deadline.
Normally, taxpayers have three years to file and claim a refund, after which the money becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury.
The agency also warned that last-minute filers may face processing delays, which could impact their ability to receive the payment on time.
In January, the IRS distributed around $2.4 billion to individuals who claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit after filing late 2021 returns late.
As of last week, the IRS reported that approximately 1.1 million Americans have yet to file their 2021 returns, leaving over $1 billion in unclaimed refunds.
The median refund for these individuals is about $781, excluding the additional Recovery Rebate Credit.
If you haven’t filed your 2021 return yet, now is the time to act.
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.