$1,400 Stimulus Checks Going Out This Month – Millions of Americans could still receive $1,400 stimulus checks this month—but only if they act fast. If you missed out on the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIP) in 2021, the IRS is giving you until April 15, 2025, to file your 2021 tax return and claim the money.

Whether you’re a working professional, retiree, student, or someone who didn’t file taxes because your income was too low, you might still be entitled to this one-time payment. Here’s everything you need to know to claim your money and avoid missing out.
$1,400 Stimulus Checks Going Out This Month
Topic | Details |
---|---|
Payment Amount | $1,400 per eligible person |
Eligibility | Based on 2021 income, citizenship/residency status, and filing status |
Deadline to File | April 15, 2025 |
Income Threshold (Full Payment) | Up to $75,000 (single), $150,000 (married joint) |
Phase-Out Limit | $80,000 (single), $160,000 (married joint) |
How to Claim | File a 2021 tax return with the IRS and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit |
Official IRS Site | www.irs.gov |
The $1,400 stimulus check isn’t just government generosity—it’s money you may still be entitled to claim. But the window to act is closing quickly. If you didn’t get this payment in 2021, now is the time to file your 2021 tax return and secure your refund before the April 15, 2025 deadline.
Whether you’re a low-income worker, a student, a retiree, or someone who missed out, you have options. Free tools, professional help, and simple filing platforms make it easier than ever to take action.
What Are the $1,400 Stimulus Checks?
The $1,400 stimulus checks were part of the third round of federal Economic Impact Payments issued under the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021. The goal was to support Americans during the economic challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While most people received their checks automatically in 2021, millions didn’t, especially those with low or no income who weren’t required to file taxes. The good news? The IRS is giving people a second chance to claim that money through the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
This credit is essentially a way to “reclaim” your missed stimulus payment. Unlike regular refunds, this is your money that was never paid out, and the government has set a strict deadline to get it.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
You may qualify for the full $1,400 payment if you:
- Were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021.
- Have a valid Social Security number.
- Were not claimed as a dependent by someone else.
- Filed a 2021 federal tax return (or are willing to file now).
Income Limits:
Eligibility is based on your adjusted gross income (AGI) in 2021:
Filing Status | Full Payment If Income ≤ | No Payment If Income ≥ |
---|---|---|
Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
Payments phase out gradually between these limits. For example, if you’re single and earned $77,000, you’d get a reduced payment.
How to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check?
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Gather Your 2021 Tax Info
If you haven’t already filed a 2021 return, collect your income documents (W-2s, 1099s, Social Security statements) and personal info (SSN, address).
Step 2: File a 2021 Tax Return
Use trusted tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or visit a local IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) center for free help.
Step 3: Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
On your return, locate the section titled “Recovery Rebate Credit” and fill in the required information to claim the $1,400.
Step 4: Submit Electronically
E-filing is the fastest and safest way to get your refund. Paper returns may take longer to process.
Step 5: Track Your Refund
After filing, check the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track your status.
Why the Deadline Matters: April 15, 2025?
Don’t wait: If you don’t file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, you permanently lose the $1,400. This isn’t an extension or grace period—it’s the final opportunity to claim it.
This deadline also applies to anyone eligible for other refunds or tax credits for 2021, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit.
Who Might Still Qualify: Real-Life Examples?
- College Students: If you were over 18 and not claimed as a dependent by your parents in 2021.
- Low-Income Individuals: If you earned very little or no income and didn’t file taxes.
- Senior Citizens: If your only income was from Social Security.
- New Immigrants: If you became a U.S. resident alien in 2021 and had a valid SSN.
- Unemployed Workers: If you lost work during COVID and didn’t file due to lack of income.
Tools and Resources to Help You File
Here are some useful resources to help you:
- IRS Free File: For individuals with income below $73,000.
- VITA Locator Tool: Free in-person tax filing help.
- IRS Mobile App: Track your refund and get filing updates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the Deadline: This is a hard cutoff—mark your calendar.
- Wrong SSN or ITIN: Make sure all numbers match your records.
- Incorrect Filing Status: Choose the correct status to avoid processing delays.
- Using Wrong Year: The Recovery Rebate Credit applies only to your 2021 tax return.
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FAQs
I already received a stimulus check in 2021. Can I still get more?
Only if you received less than $1,400 and were eligible for the full amount. You can claim the difference via the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Can I claim the check for my child or dependent?
Yes. If your dependent was born in 2021 or became eligible during that year, you can claim an additional $1,400.
What if I didn’t earn any income in 2021?
You can still file a zero-income return. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria, you can claim the credit.
How long will it take to receive the refund?
Electronic filing typically results in refunds within 21 days, though paper returns may take longer.
Is the $1,400 stimulus taxable?
No. The payment is not considered taxable income and won’t affect your future tax liability.