$1,400 Checks Are Back in April 2025 – Here’s How to Claim Yours Before It’s Too Late!

A surprise financial boost is still available for millions of Americans — but time is quickly running out. The IRS is urging individuals who never received their third-round stimulus payment of $1,400 to file their 2021 federal tax return before the April 15, 2025 deadline.

This payment comes in the form of the Recovery Rebate Credit, and it’s the last chance to claim the stimulus funds originally issued during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you missed it back in 2021, you’re not out of luck  yet.

Who’s Eligible?

You may qualify for the full $1,400 if:

• Your adjusted gross income (AGI) was $75,000 or less (for individuals) or $150,000 or less (for married couples filing jointly).

• You have a valid Social Security number.

• You were not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return in 2021.

Payments begin to phase out at higher income levels and are completely phased out for single filers earning more than $80,000 or couples earning over $160,000.

How to Claim Your Payment

Even if you normally don’t file taxes, you must submit a 2021 tax return to get the money. The IRS says over 1 million people still haven’t claimed what they’re owed.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. File your 2021 federal tax return before the April 15, 2025 deadline.

2. Be sure to complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section on the form accurately.

3. The IRS will send your $1,400 payment either by direct deposit or check, depending on how you file.

What Happens After You File?

Once your return is processed, the IRS will either apply the $1,400 as a refund or use it to reduce any taxes you owe. For many low-income individuals, this could mean a full refund check with no taxes due.

Bonus Tip: You Might Be Eligible for More

While you’re filing, check if you also qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) , another powerful credit that can add even more money to your refund, especially if you have children or worked low-wage jobs in 2021.

Don’t Fall for Scams

One final warning: The IRS will not contact you by phone, text, or social media to offer this payment. Always go directly to IRS.gov to file or get help. Scammers are on the rise, especially around stimulus season.

If you never received the third stimulus check, or aren’t sure if you did, it’s worth double-checking your 2021 records and filing before April 15. That $1,400 could make a big difference this spring.

Need help? Free tax filing options are available at IRS Free File for many filers. Don’t wait until it’s too late!