The 2021 American Rescue Plan left an open door for those who did not receive the $1,400 from the third stimulus checks plan. The good news: The IRS is still accepting claims through April 15, 2025. This applies even if you didn’t file taxes that year or if your income came from benefits like Social Security.
The key is in the Recovery Rebate Credit, a credit that covers not only you, but also dependents such as university students or grandparents who live with you. Many don’t know that these groups now qualify, which could add up to hundreds or thousands of extra dollars. But time is short and taxpayers have to act now.
Hurry up: you’ve got to claim your stimulus check ASAP
Your eligibility depends on your 2021 adjusted gross income (AGI). For singles, the limit is $75,000; for couples, $150,000. If you exceed these amounts, the credit is gradually reduced until it disappears. For example, if you earned $78,000 as a single, you will receive a fraction of the total. If you reached $80,000, there is nothing.
Didn’t file taxes in 2021? No problem. Use IRS Free File to submit your return for free, even if you had no income. Choose direct deposit to speed up the process. Since last December, the IRS has sent automatic payments to 1 million people, but if you’re not on that list, it’s up to you to claim.
Errors that could cost you the tax refund
A common misconception is that benefits like SSI or SNAP exclude you. False: These payments do not affect your eligibility. Another myth is believing that adult dependents don’t count. If you have a university student or someone with a disability in charge, add $1,400 for each one. Check IRS Letter 6475 or your online account to confirm your amount.
There is also confusion with deadlines. Some believe that, by not working in 2021, they should not declare. The reality is that, without that statement, the IRS cannot process your credit. And be careful: if they contact you by message offering payment, it is probably a scam. The agency never initiates communication by text.
Case studies: how much could you receive?
Imagine a couple with two children had an AGI of $145,000 in 2021. When filing, they could claim 5,600 (1,400 for each adult and dependent). If your AGI was $160,000, the credit is removed. For a retiree with non-taxable income, simply submit the return with your benefit information to access the full amount.
If you already filed your 2021 return but forgot the credit, you can still correct it with Form 1040-X. Of course: this process is slower, so do it soon. And if you have questions, a tax professional can help you, especially if your case includes non-traditional dependents.
Key tools to avoid getting left behind
The IRS site offers calculators to estimate your credit and step-by-step guides. If you use IRS Free File, the system will guide you automatically. Do you prefer in-person help? Some community centers offer free assistance. Just make sure you have your 2021 documents on hand: W-2, 1099, or proof of social benefits.
One crucial detail: Although the IRS has started sending automatic payments, this only applies to those who have already filed their 2021 return but skipped the credit. If you never sent it, the money will not arrive by itself. You must take the initiative before the deadline expires in April 2025.
Don’t wait any longer: Claim your stimulus check NOW
There are less than two weeks left until April 15. The IRS estimates there is $2.4 billion unclaimed, and once the date passes, those funds will be lost. For many families, this money could cover debts, medical expenses or emergencies. Even if you think your amount is small, every dollar counts.
Don’t wait until the last day. Online systems could become overwhelmed, and a technical error could ruin your chance. If you send your return by mail, use certified service to have proof of delivery. And remember: after 2025, there will be no extensions or exceptions.
