The IRS is urging Americans who missed out on their 2021 third stimulus check to claim up to $1,400 through the Recovery Rebate Credit before the fast-approaching deadline. If you didn’t receive the full amount—or any—of the third Economic Impact Payment, you have until October 15, 2025, to file your 2021 tax return and claim this refundable credit. Here’s what you need to know to secure your payment.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a tax credit for individuals who didn’t receive one or more of the COVID-19 stimulus payments, particularly the third round issued in 2021. This payment was worth up to $1,400 per eligible individual or $2,800 for married couples filing jointly, plus $1,400 for each qualifying dependent. If your income changed in 2021 or you welcomed a new child, you might be eligible for this credit even if you didn’t qualify for the original stimulus.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit if:
- You didn’t receive the full $1,400 third stimulus payment in 2021.
- Your 2021 adjusted gross income (AGI) was $75,000 or less for single filers ($150,000 for married couples filing jointly).
- You have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN) for dependents.
- You or your spouse weren’t claimed as dependents on someone else’s 2021 tax return.
- You file a 2021 tax return, even if you had minimal or no income.
Non-filers, including those with little to no income, can still claim this credit by filing a 2021 return. The IRS notes that this credit won’t affect eligibility for federal benefits like SNAP or SSI.
How to Claim Your $1,400
To claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, you must file a 2021 federal tax return by October 15, 2025, even if you don’t usually file taxes. The IRS offers a free, easy way to do this through the IRS Free File program for those with incomes of $73,000 or less.
Here’s how:
- Visit the IRS Free File page and choose a provider.
- Use tax software to file your 2021 return electronically.
- Include the Recovery Rebate Credit on Line 30 of Form 1040.
- Opt for direct deposit for faster access to your refund.
Check your stimulus payment history in your IRS Online Account to confirm what you received.
Don’t Miss Out!
The IRS estimates over $1 billion in unclaimed 2021 stimulus funds remain. After October 15, 2025, unclaimed credits revert to the U.S. Treasury—no extensions or appeals are available. File now to claim your money. For more details, visit IRS.gov.
Source: IRS.gov