If you missed out on the third-round stimulus check from 2021, you still have a final opportunity to claim up to $1,400 in 2025. Nearly one million Americans never received their full payment, but with inflation continuing to strain household budgets, this Recovery Rebate Credit could provide vital financial relief.
This payment is not a new stimulus check but rather the remaining balance of the original third-round payment authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The IRS is offering a final window to claim any unreceived or partial payments — but you must file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025 to be eligible.
What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check in 2025?
The $1,400 stimulus payment you can claim in 2025 represents unclaimed funds from the 2021 federal pandemic relief efforts. While the bulk of payments were distributed in 2021, many eligible individuals either did not file a 2021 tax return or were unaware they could claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. If you qualify, this payment can be a significant financial boost.
Eligibility: Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Stimulus Payment?
To be eligible, your income from the 2021 tax year must fall within these thresholds:
| Filing Status | Maximum AGI for Full Payment | Payment Phases Out By |
|---|---|---|
| Single filers | Up to $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Heads of Household | Up to $112,500 | $120,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $150,000 | $160,000 |
Additional criteria include:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Must have a valid Social Security number
- Cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
- Eligible even if you received a partial payment in 2021
How to Claim Your Stimulus Check: Step-by-Step
Step 1: File Your 2021 Tax Return
The IRS requires a 2021 federal tax return to process your Recovery Rebate Credit. Even if you had no income in 2021, filing is necessary to claim your payment.
You can file your return using:
- IRS Free File
- Tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block
- A trusted tax preparer or IRS Tax Assistance Center
Step 2: Complete Form 1040
Make sure to fill out the Recovery Rebate Credit section on your 2021 Form 1040. This is where you’ll report your eligibility and any prior payments. The IRS will then calculate your payment.
Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline
The deadline to claim this credit is April 15, 2025. If you miss this date, you will permanently forfeit the payment.
When and How Will You Receive Your Payment?
- Payment Timeline: Payments are expected to be processed within 4 to 6 weeks after your return is accepted. Early filers have already begun receiving payments starting in late 2024.
- Delivery Methods: Payments are made via direct deposit (if you provide bank info) or by paper check (if no bank info is provided).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure you receive your full payment without delays:
- File the correct tax year (2021) — other years won’t qualify
- Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section on Form 1040
- File before the April 15, 2025 deadline
- Update your mailing address and bank info if changed
Protect Yourself from Scams
Beware of phishing scams related to stimulus payments:
- The IRS will never contact you by phone, text, or email requesting payment information
- Only use the official IRS website to check your payment status
- Report suspicious messages to phishing@irs.gov
What If You Had No Income in 2021?
You can still qualify even if you had no earnings in 2021. This includes retirees, students, or those on Social Security benefits who were not required to file taxes but want to claim the credit.
Don’t Miss Your Final Chance
This $1,400 stimulus check in 2025 is your last opportunity to claim the third-round stimulus payment from 2021. Whether you didn’t file your taxes that year, didn’t realize you were eligible, or only got a partial payment, take the time to file your 2021 return now.
With everyday costs rising, this one-time payment can provide meaningful financial help — but only if you act before April 15, 2025.
FAQs
Is this a new stimulus check?
No, this is the final chance to claim unreceived payments from the 2021 third-round stimulus.
How much can I get?
Up to $1,400 per eligible person, depending on your 2021 income and household size.
Do I need to file taxes to get it?
Yes, you must file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025.
What if I didn’t work or had no income in 2021?
You can still file and claim the payment even if you had zero income.
When will I receive the payment?
Payments generally arrive within 4 to 6 weeks after your return is processed.
If you need help filing your 2021 taxes or want to confirm your eligibility, consider contacting a tax professional or use the IRS Free File service to get started.