Over $1 Billion in Unclaimed Stimulus Payments—Is Your Money Waiting?

As the deadline rapidly approaches, the IRS is urging millions of eligible Americans to claim over $1 billion in unclaimed stimulus payments. The clock is ticking, and time is running out for taxpayers who may be owed funds from the 2021 COVID relief efforts.

The unclaimed stimulus payments are part of the Recovery Rebate Credit, which was designed to help individuals who didn’t receive the full amount of their stimulus checks in 2021. This program aimed to support those facing financial hardship during the pandemic and cover those who missed out on previous payments.

A Final Opportunity to Claim Your Stimulus Payment

The IRS has set a hard deadline of April 15, 2025, for individuals to file a 2021 tax return to claim these payments. If you’re eligible but don’t file your return by the deadline, you’ll lose out on this money, as the funds will be returned to the U.S. Treasury.

Currently, approximately 1.1 million eligible taxpayers have not claimed their stimulus payments. Those who qualify could receive up to $1,400, depending on their specific circumstances. But here’s the kicker: those who have failed to claim the payment so far are missing out on a total of $1 billion in funds.

Who’s Missing Out on Payments?

The IRS has identified that many eligible Americans—due to oversight, life changes, or lack of awareness—did not claim their full stimulus credit. The states with the highest number of unclaimed payments include Texas, California, and New York. Here are some of the numbers:

• Texas: 102,200 residents could be owed $94.8 million.

• California: 116,300 residents are missing out on $92.3 million.

• New York: 73,000 people could claim up to $72.5 million.

Don’t miss your chance to claim what you are rightfully owed.

The Process Is Simpler Than You Think

The IRS has made the process easier by automatically issuing payments to eligible individuals. All that’s required is for you to file your 2021 tax return before the deadline. The funds will be processed without the need for you to file amended returns, and you can receive them by direct deposit or check.

What You Need to Do

If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, now’s the time to act. Even if you’re not required to file a return under normal circumstances, doing so before April 15, 2025, could help you get your stimulus payment.

Don’t wait any longer—claim your payment today before the opportunity slips away!