The Truth About the 2nd and 3rd Stimulus Checks—Did You Get Everything You Deserved?

As Americans continue to navigate the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, questions still linger about the federal stimulus checks, especially the second and third rounds distributed between late 2020 and 2021. Here’s a refresher on what those payments looked like, who qualified, and how to claim one if you missed it.

The second stimulus check was signed into law by then-President Donald Trump on December 27, 2020, as part of a $900 billion relief package. This payment provided $600 per adult and $600 per child dependent under 17. The full amount was available to individuals making up to $75,000 a year or married couples earning up to $150,000 jointly. However, payments are phased out above those income levels, capping at $87,000 for individuals and $174,000 for couples.

These payments were distributed rapidly, with most Americans receiving them via direct deposit or mailed checks by mid-January 2021.

The third stimulus check came just a few months later. Signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 11, 202,1, under the American Rescue Plan, it delivered $1,400 per eligible adult and $1,400 per dependent, regardless of age. This was a significant change from prior rounds, which limited child payments to dependents under 17.

Eligibility for this third round was tighter. Individuals making up to $75,000, heads of household up to $112,500, and couples earning up to $150,000 received the full amount. Payments phased out completely at $80,000 (individual), $120,000 (head of household), and $160,000 (married couples).

If you didn’t receive a payment or got less than you were eligible for, the IRS allowed taxpayers to claim missing amounts through the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2020 and 2021 tax returns.

For many families, these payments were a critical lifeline during uncertain times. If you suspect you missed a check or didn’t get the full amount, visit Irs.gov to explore your options.