The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reported that April 15, 2025 will be the last date for eligible taxpayers to request the Recovery Refund Credit, a benefit of up to $1,400 per person. The measure seeks to compensate those who did not receive stimulus payments during the pandemic, known as Economic Impact Payments (EIP).
According to official IRS data, a little more than 1 million people did not properly claim the stimulus check when they filled out their 2021 returns, even though they met the eligibility requirements. The remaining funds, estimated at $2.4 billion, began to be distributed from December 2024, although the process was extended until 2025.
How to claim the $1,400 stimulus check – It’s waiting for you since 2021
The Recovery Refund Credit is aimed at those who did not get the third stimulus check sent in March 2021. Unlike the first two payments (March and December 2020), this credit only applies to the 2021 return. The IRS clarified that information about previous stimuli should not be included in recent forms.
People with minimal or no income in 2021 can also apply, as long as they file their return before the deadline. Those who have already submitted it but omitted the credit will receive the payment automatically, according to the agency. To verify eligibility, the IRS suggests reviewing the corresponding line on the return or reviewing the EIPs received through its online platform.
You must comply with the following steps:
- Those who have not filed their 2021 return must do so by April 15, 2025, even if they had no tax obligations that year.
- The exact amount will depend on your adjusted gross income (AGI).
- The maximum amount of $1,400 applies to singles with income under $75,000, and couples filing jointly with income under $150,000.
Payments are made by direct deposit or physical check, upon notification by mail. The IRS reported through its official blog that it does not require additional actions from those who have already claimed the credit. However, he urged checking online records to confirm amounts and avoid duplicate claims.
Pending returns: dozens of thousands of unclaimed stimulus checks
An IRS report revealed that about 12% of those eligible missed the credit in 2021, mainly due to ignorance or errors in forms. The agency enabled assistance channels to guide the process, although it warned of inflexible deadlines. After April 2025, retroactive claims will not be accepted.
We consulted with tax experts, and they recommended taxpayers review all their past returns and compare them with the EIPs received. Those who detect discrepancies must submit an amendment before the deadline, which is April 15, 2025.
These funds are not subject to federal taxes, although some states may consider counting them as income, so it is something you should check with your city’s tax authority to see if you should report it on your next tax return.
