The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) hast set April 15, 2025 as the final date to file 2021 tax returns and claim the $1,400 recovery rebate credit. This benefit, part of the pandemic stimulus payments, remains available to a small group that did not previously receive it.
The maximum amount per individual is up to $1,400, and for couples it can go up to $2,800 for couples filing jointly. Those who did not receive the payment in 2021 must file their tax return for that year, even if they are not required to do so for other reasons. “Your 2021 recovery refund credit will reduce any tax you owe for 2021 or be included in your tax refund,” according to the IRS.
How to claim your 2021 stimulus payment from the IRS: today is the last day
When you file your 2021 return, the refund credit is automatically applied to tax debts or added to the refund. The funds can also be used to cover obligations such as unpaid child support or federal student loans, according to rules set by the IRS.
In addition to the stimulus, filing 2021 taxes allows you to access expanded credits during the pandemic:
- Child tax credit: Up to $3,600 per eligible child.
- Dependent Care Credit: Up to $8,000 in expenses.
- Earned Income Tax Credit: Amounts adjusted for low income.
The $1,400 checks were the third round of federal aid to mitigate the economic impact of COVID-19. Between 2020 and 2021, $931 billion in direct payments were distributed, according to the Congressional Budget Committee. As of April 2024, less than 2% of potential beneficiaries have not claimed their credit.
Those who exceeded the income thresholds in 2021 are not eligible: $80,000 for singles, $120,000 for heads of household and $160,000 for couples. Those who have already received the full payment or were declared as dependents on another return cannot claim the credit.
Steps to file the late return for tax year 2021:
- Collect 2021 income forms (W-2, 1099).
- Download Form 1040 or 1040-SR from the IRS site.
- Include the amount not received on line 30 of the form.
- Send the declaration by mail or electronically, with April 15, 2025 being the deadline to do so.
The IRS offers guides on its portal and telephone service in English and Spanish. Those who need help can contact Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), a free program for incomes under $64,000. Free File is also available for electronic declarations at no cost.
Filing after April 15 does not incur penalties if the IRS owes you a refund. However, if taxes are owed, interest and fees of 0.5% per month will apply to the outstanding amount, according to federal tax regulations.