If You Still Haven’t Claimed Your $1,400 IRS Stimulus Check, Time Is Running Out
The IRS has officially announced that June 15, 2025, is your final opportunity to claim the $1,400 stimulus payment. Originally issued under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, this financial support helped millions, yet many eligible individuals never received it.
If you missed out due to not filing taxes, outdated information, or life changes, you might still be eligible. This guide covers who qualifies, how to file, and why you must act quickly.
What Is the $1,400 IRS Stimulus Check?
The $1,400 payment was the third round of Economic Impact Payments distributed in 2021. While most people got it automatically, over a million eligible recipients didn’t—often due to missed tax filings or eligibility misunderstandings.
The good news is that you can still get the money by claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return. However, this must be done by June 15, 2025. Even if you had no income or didn’t owe taxes, this refundable credit allows you to receive the full amount.
Quick Summary of the Stimulus Check
| 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, claim Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Applies To | Anyone who missed or under-received the third stimulus check |
Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
Eligibility depends on your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from your 2021 tax return:
| 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, including children, college students, elderly parents, and disabled adult dependents.
Example: A single parent with two children earning $68,000 in 2021 could receive $4,200 total: $1,400 for themselves and $1,400 for each child.
Why Some People Missed the Payment
Here are common reasons why people missed out:
- Not filing a 2021 tax return
- Filing too late for automatic payment
- Income changes that made them newly eligible
- Changed banking or mailing information
- Non-filers such as seniors or low-income individuals
How to Claim the Stimulus Check
Step 1: Collect Your 2021 Tax Information
You’ll need documents such as:
- W-2s or 1099s from 2021
- Social Security Numbers for yourself and dependents
- Bank details for direct deposit (optional but recommended)
Step 2: File Your 2021 Tax Return
You can file using:
- IRS Free File (if your income was under $73,000)
- Tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block
- VITA sites or Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics for in-person help
Make sure to fill out Line 30 on Form 1040 to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Step 3: Track Your Refund
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check the status. If you choose direct deposit, you can typically expect your refund within 2–4 weeks.
What Happens If You Miss the June 15 Deadline?
Missing the June 15, 2025, deadline means you forfeit your chance to receive the $1,400 check. The IRS will not allow extensions or late claims after this date. To ensure you don’t lose out, file as soon as possible.
Smart Ways to Use Your $1,400
Here are some smart ideas on how people are putting this money to use:
- Paying down credit card balances
- Covering essential bills like rent or groceries
- Creating an emergency savings fund
- Investing in career development like certifications or training
If you haven’t yet received your $1,400 stimulus payment, this is your final chance. Submitting your 2021 tax return by June 15, 2025, could bring hundreds or even thousands back into your household. Don’t wait — take action now.
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, you can receive the full amount even if you had no income.
Is the $1,400 stimulus check considered taxable income?
No, the payment is a tax credit and does not count as taxable income.
Susan is a seasoned finance writer with a knack for breaking down complex money topics into clear, actionable advice. With years of experience in personal finance, investing, and market trends, she empowers readers to make smarter financial decisions. Her work has been featured in leading finance blogs and publications, where she combines sharp analysis with relatable storytelling. Whether it’s budgeting, wealth-building, or decoding the latest economic shifts, Susan’s mission is to help people take control of their financial future with confidence.