In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States government authorized several rounds of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), commonly known as stimulus checks, to provide financial relief to Americans. The third round, amounting to $1,400 per eligible individual, was distributed under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. However, as of March 2025, it’s estimated that over 1.1 million Americans have yet to claim these funds. The deadline to do so is rapidly approaching on April 15, 2025. This comprehensive guide will help you determine your eligibility and the steps necessary to claim your stimulus payment before it’s too late.
- Understanding the Third Economic Impact Payment
- Eligibility Criteria for the $1,400 Stimulus Check
- Why Haven’t Some People Received Their Payments?
- Steps to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check
- Automatic Payments for Certain Taxpayers
- Consequences of Missing the April 15, 2025 Deadline
- Common Questions and Misconceptions
- Final Thoughts
Understanding the Third Economic Impact Payment
The third EIP was designed to provide direct financial assistance to individuals and families affected by the pandemic. Eligible recipients could receive up to $1,400 per individual, including dependents. These payments were advances on the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) for the 2021 tax year. If you didn’t receive this payment or received less than the full amount, you might still be eligible to claim it by filing a 2021 tax return.
Eligibility Criteria for the $1,400 Stimulus Check
To determine if you’re eligible for the third stimulus payment, consider the following criteria:
1. Adjusted Gross Income (AGI):
• Individuals: Full payment for AGIs up to $75,000; phased out completely at $80,000.
• Married Filing Jointly: Full payment for AGIs up to $150,000; phased out completely at $160,000.
• Head of Household: Full payment for AGIs up to $112,500; phased out completely at $120,000.
2. Dependents: Each dependent, regardless of age, qualifies for an additional $1,400.
3. Citizenship or Residency Status: Must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
4. Not Claimed as a Dependent: You cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
Why Haven’t Some People Received Their Payments?
Several factors have contributed to eligible individuals missing out on their stimulus payments:
• Non-Filers: Some individuals, particularly those with low income or no income, were not required to file tax returns and, therefore, did not receive automatic payments.
• Filing Errors: Errors or omissions on tax returns, such as not claiming the RRC, led to missed payments.
• Address or Banking Changes: Payments sent to outdated addresses or closed bank accounts were returned to the IRS.
Steps to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check
If you believe you’re eligible but haven’t received your payment, follow these steps:
1. Review Your 2021 Tax Return:
• Check if you claimed the RRC. If you didn’t file a 2021 tax return, you must do so by April 15, 2025.
2. File a 2021 Tax Return:
• Even if you have little or no income, file a 2021 tax return to claim the RRC.
• Use IRS Free File or consult a tax professional for assistance.
3. Calculate the Recovery Rebate Credit:
• Use the RRC worksheet in the 2021 Form 1040 or 1040-SR instructions to determine your credit amount.
4. Submit Your Tax Return:
• File electronically for faster processing.
• Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
5. Track Your Payment:
• Use the IRS “Get My Payment” tool to monitor the status of your payment.
Automatic Payments for Certain Taxpayers
The IRS has identified approximately 1 million taxpayers who didn’t claim the RRC on their 2021 tax returns. In December 2024, the IRS began issuing automatic payments totaling $2.4 billion to these individuals. If you fall into this category, you should have received your payment via direct deposit or check by late January 2025. No further action is required on your part.
Consequences of Missing the April 15, 2025 Deadline
Failing to file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, means forfeiting your eligibility to claim the RRC. The IRS adheres to a strict three-year window for claiming tax refunds, after which unclaimed funds become the property of the U.S. Treasury.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
1. Do I need to file an amended return if I missed the RRC?
• No, the IRS is issuing automatic payments to eligible taxpayers who didn’t claim the RRC on their original 2021 tax returns.
2. What if I didn’t receive the first or second stimulus payments?
• You can claim the RRC for missed first and second payments by filing a 2020 tax return.
3. Can I still use the “Get My Payment” tool?
• No, the IRS has deactivated the “Get My Payment” application.
Final Thoughts
The $1,400 stimulus check was a crucial component of the federal government’s efforts to provide financial relief during the pandemic. If you haven’t received yours, it’s imperative to act before the April 15, 2025 deadline. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure you receive any funds you’re entitled to. For more information, visit the IRS website or consult a tax professional.
