Even though it’s been some time since the last round of stimulus checks was distributed, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that many Americans may still be eligible for a $1,400 payment.
This crucial financial aid is specifically for those who are not yet receiving Social Security benefits, offering them a valuable opportunity to get some much-needed support.
This remaining stimulus amount is part of the Recovery Rebate Credit for the 2021 tax year. The IRS identified that a number of eligible individuals either didn’t file their taxes that year or neglected to claim the credit.
As a result, the IRS began sending out more than $2.4 billion in unclaimed checks in December 2024. For Americans awaiting their Social Security payments, this could serve as an important temporary financial cushion.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 IRS Stimulus Check?
The IRS is focusing this payment on individuals who failed to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return. While millions have already received this benefit, a considerable number of eligible individuals missed out—either by not filing their taxes or by overlooking the credit.
The good news is that you still have a chance to claim the payment. If you haven’t yet filed your 2021 tax return, you can still do so before April 15, 2025, to secure the payment.
Filing at this stage might also allow you to claim other potential tax refunds that you missed. For those not yet receiving Social Security, this check could be a crucial source of financial support while you wait for your benefit claim to be processed or delayed.
How to Claim the $1,400 Stimulus Check
If you already filed your 2021 tax return but did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, there’s no need to take any additional steps. The IRS began issuing automatic payments in December 2024. Eligible individuals will receive the $1,400 stimulus check either via direct deposit or paper check, depending on how they submitted their previous tax return.
On the other hand, if you didn’t file your 2021 tax return, you will need to do so before the April 15, 2025 deadline. You can either file through the IRS Free File system or seek assistance from a tax professional. Be sure to include the Recovery Rebate Credit on your return. Once your return is processed and approved, the IRS will issue the payment according to your eligibility.
This extended filing window provides one last chance for many Americans—particularly those still waiting for their Social Security benefits—to receive additional federal aid. It’s essential to review your 2021 tax filing status now, so you don’t miss out on this opportunity to claim the $1,400 stimulus check.
Key Information About the $1,400 Stimulus Check
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligible Tax Year | 2021 Tax Year |
| Payment Amount | $1,400 |
| Deadline to File | April 15, 2025 |
| How Payments Are Distributed | Direct Deposit or Paper Check |
| IRS Action | Automatic Payments for Eligible Tax Filers, No Action Required for Some |
FAQs
Who is eligible for the $1,400 stimulus check?
The $1,400 stimulus check is for those who were eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit but did not claim it on their 2021 tax return.
How can I claim my $1,400 stimulus check?
If you didn’t file your 2021 tax return, you can do so before April 15, 2025. Make sure to include the Recovery Rebate Credit in your filing.
What happens if I already filed my 2021 tax return but didn’t claim the credit?
The IRS will automatically send you the payment in December 2024. It will either be via direct deposit or paper check, depending on your prior filing.
How long do I have to claim my $1,400 payment?
You have until April 15, 2025, to file your 2021 tax return and claim the payment.