If you missed out on the third round of COVID-19 stimulus payments back in 2021, there’s still a chance to claim it. But time is running out. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set April 15, 2025, as the final deadline to file your 2021 tax return and get the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit.
This article explains who is eligible, how to claim the money, and what steps you need to take before the deadline. Even if you normally don’t file taxes, you might still qualify for this payment.
What Is the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit?
The $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit was part of the third federal stimulus payment given during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you didn’t receive this money in 2021, you can still claim it now by filing your 2021 tax return, even if you weren’t required to file taxes that year.
How Much Can You Get?
- Individuals can get up to $1,400
- Couples filing jointly can receive up to $2,800
This credit will either reduce any tax you owe or be added to your tax refund. However, the payment could also be used to settle certain debts like unpaid child support or federal student loans.
Who Can Still Claim This Credit?
You can still claim the 2021 stimulus payment if:
- You didn’t receive the full $1,400 payment in 2021
- You were not listed as a dependent on someone else’s return
- Your 2021 income was below the following limits:
- $80,000 for single filers
- $120,000 for heads of household
- $160,000 for couples filing jointly
If you already got the full payment or exceeded the income limit, you are not eligible to claim this credit again.
Extra Benefits When Filing 2021 Taxes
Filing your 2021 tax return not only helps you claim the stimulus payment, but you may also benefit from pandemic-related credits, such as:
- Child Tax Credit: Up to $3,600 per child
- Dependent Care Credit: Covers up to $8,000 in expenses
- Earned Income Tax Credit: Adjusted amounts for low-income earners
These benefits were expanded during the pandemic, and they could increase your total refund amount.
How to File Your 2021 Tax Return
Here are the steps to claim your stimulus credit before April 15, 2025:
- Collect your 2021 income documents like W-2s or 1099s
- Download Form 1040 or 1040-SR from the official IRS website
- Fill in the amount not received on Line 30 of the form
- File the return electronically or by mail
- Make sure to submit it before the April 15 deadline
If you’re owed a refund, you won’t face any penalties for filing late. But if you owe taxes, a 0.5% monthly interest fee will apply on the amount due.
Where to Get Free Help
If you’re unsure how to file or don’t have experience, you can get free assistance:
- VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance): Available for those earning under $64,000/year
- Free File Program: Helps you file online at no cost
- IRS Helpline: Offers help in both English and Spanish
Visit the official IRS website or call their support line to get guidance, documents, or answers to your questions.
Don’t miss out on your chance to claim up to $1,400 or more in missed stimulus money. Whether you didn’t receive the full amount or didn’t file taxes in 2021, this could be your last opportunity. With the April 15, 2025 deadline fast approaching, it’s best to act now and file your return. The process is simple and might put some much-needed money back in your hands.
