If you still haven’t claimed your $1,400 IRS stimulus check, now is the time to act. This payment, issued as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, helped millions of Americans during the pandemic. But if you missed out—whether due to not filing, a mistake, or personal circumstances—June 15, 2025, is your final chance to claim what you’re owed.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how to file, and why it’s crucial not to delay.
Details
Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline to Claim | June 15, 2025 |
| Maximum Amount | $1,400 per eligible individual + $1,400 per qualifying dependent |
| Eligibility | Based on 2021 income and filing status |
| How to Claim | File a 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Applies To | Anyone who missed or under-received the third stimulus payment |
| Official Source | www.irs.gov |
What Is It?
The $1,400 stimulus check was the third round of Economic Impact Payments issued in 2021. While most Americans got it automatically, over one million people didn’t—many because they didn’t file a 2021 tax return.
This check isn’t just extra cash—it’s a refundable tax credit. That means even if you had no income or owed no tax, you can still get paid if you qualify.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility depends on your 2021 adjusted gross income (AGI):
| Filing Status | Full Payment if AGI Is: | Phase-Out Ends At: |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 or less | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 or less | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 or less | $120,000 |
You can also receive $1,400 for each qualifying dependent, regardless of age. That includes college students, elderly parents, or disabled adult dependents.
Example:
A single parent with two children earning $68,000 in 2021 would qualify for:
- $1,400 for self
- $1,400 for each child
Total: $4,200
Why People Missed It
Here are some common reasons:
- Didn’t file a 2021 return: IRS couldn’t process your eligibility.
- Filed too late: Past deadline means no automatic payment.
- Changed income: You may have qualified based on 2021 even if you didn’t earlier.
- Moved or changed banks: IRS had outdated information.
- Non-filers: Seniors, low-income individuals, or people on disability benefits often skip filing.
How to Claim
Go to your online IRS account or check IRS Notice 1444-C and Letter 6475 for 2021. These documents show whether you already received the payment.
Gather 2021 Tax Info
You’ll need:
- W-2s, 1099s, or any income statements from 2021
- SSNs for you and your dependents
- Bank info for direct deposit (optional, but recommended)
File a 2021 Return
Use:
- IRS Free File (for income under $73,000)
- Tax software (TurboTax, H&R Block, etc.)
- VITA sites or Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics for free in-person help
Be sure to complete Line 30 on Form 1040 to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Track Your Refund
After filing, use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check the status. Direct deposits usually arrive in 2 to 4 weeks.
Miss the Deadline?
There are no second chances. If you don’t file by June 15, 2025, the credit is gone forever—no extensions, no appeals. It’s a hard cutoff.
Smart Ways to Use It
A $1,400 check could make a big difference. Here’s how some are using theirs:
- Paying off high-interest credit cards
- Covering rent or groceries
- Starting an emergency fund
- Paying for job training or certification programs
Expert Advice
If you’re a CPA or financial advisor, help your clients:
- File retroactively if needed
- Check stimulus eligibility for themselves and dependents
- Avoid scams and get help through trusted channels
For Everyone Else:
- Don’t ignore mail from the IRS
- Check your 2021 income carefully
- If you think you missed out—file now, don’t wait
This payment was meant to help Americans weather tough times. If you didn’t get yours, it’s not too late—but the clock is ticking. Filing your 2021 tax return before June 15, 2025, could be one of the easiest ways to put up to $1,400 (or more) back in your pocket.
FAQs
What’s the deadline to claim the $1,400 check?
You must file your 2021 tax return by June 15, 2025.
Can I still get the payment if I had no income?
Yes, as long as you file a 2021 return and meet eligibility rules.
Do I need to file even if I don’t owe taxes?
Yes, filing is required to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
How much can I get for dependents?
You’ll get $1,400 per qualifying dependent, regardless of age.
Is the stimulus taxable income?
No, it’s a tax credit and not considered taxable income.
