Stimulus Alert: Millions Set to Receive a Check—Find Out If You Qualify

If you’ve been struggling with rising costs, there’s some good news—the IRS is sending out surprise stimulus checks, and you could get up to $1,650. These payments are part of an effort to get money to taxpayers who missed out on stimulus checks back in 2021. The best part? You don’t have to do anything if you qualify—your money is on the way.

Who’s Getting These Payments?

The IRS is automatically sending these payments to people who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on their 2021 tax return. If you qualify, the money will land in your bank account or mailbox soon.

To be eligible, your adjusted gross income (AGI) must be within these limits:

• Single Filers – Earned $75,000 or less get the full amount, with payments phasing out at $80,000.
• Married Couples – Combined income of $150,000 or less, with payments phasing out at $160,000.
• Head of Household – Income under $112,500, with a phase-out at $120,000.

If you have dependents, you could also receive an extra $1,400 per qualifying child.

How Will You Get Paid?

The IRS is automatically sending payments via direct deposit or by mailing paper checks. If you filed your 2021 taxes but didn’t claim the credit, you don’t need to do anything—the money will be sent to you. Most eligible people will receive their payments by the end of January 2025.

What If You Haven’t Filed Yet?

If you didn’t file a 2021 tax return, you still have time. The IRS has set a final deadline of April 15, 2025, to claim your missing stimulus money. To get your payment faster, it’s best to file electronically and make sure all your information is correct.

Why Is This Happening Now?

During the pandemic, the government sent out three rounds of Economic Impact Payments:

• March 2020 – Up to $1,200 per person
• December 2020 – Up to $600 per person
• March 2021 – Up to $1,400 per person

Not everyone got their full payments, so the IRS is sending these “catch-up” checks now to make sure everyone who qualifies gets their money.

Check If You’re Getting Paid

This is money you may have overlooked, and it’s worth checking if you’re eligible. If you think you qualify, look at your 2021 tax return and make sure everything was filed correctly. With billions of dollars being sent out, now is the time to make sure you get your share.