Millions of Americans could still be eligible for a $1,400 stimulus payment — but the window to act is closing fast. The IRS has confirmed that more than 1 million people may have missed out on the third Economic Impact Payment (EIP) issued in 2021. The good news? You can still claim it through the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit — but only until April 15, 2025.
If you didn’t get your full payment (or any payment at all), you may be owed money. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, how to claim it, and the steps to take before the final deadline.
$1,400 April Stimulus: What It Really Is
Despite the buzz around a “$1,400 deposit in April,” this is not a new stimulus check in 2025. It’s part of a federal tax credit tied to the American Rescue Plan Act — specifically, the third round of stimulus payments distributed in 2021.
Many Americans missed these payments for a variety of reasons, including filing issues, income changes, or new dependents. That’s where the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit comes in: it’s your second chance to claim the money you were entitled to.
Quick Overview: 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $1,400 per eligible person |
| Program Name | 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Deadline to File | April 15, 2025 |
| How to Claim | File or amend your 2021 tax return |
| Income Thresholds | Single: $75,000; Married: $150,000; HOH: $112,500 |
| Eligible Year | 2021 return only |
| IRS Resource | IRS.gov Recovery Rebate Info |
Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Credit?
You may still be eligible if you missed the 2021 stimulus, received less than you should have, or didn’t file a 2021 return.
You Qualify If:
- Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) in 2021 was:
- $75,000 or less for single filers
- $150,000 or less for married couples filing jointly
- $112,500 or less for head of household
- You had a valid Social Security Number in 2021
- You were not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
- You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien for tax purposes
Bonus Eligibility:
If you had a new child or dependent in 2021, you may be owed an additional $1,400 per dependent — even if you received a stimulus payment for yourself.
Example:
John and Maria didn’t file taxes in 2021 because they had no income. They have a 3-year-old child and didn’t receive the third stimulus check. By filing a 2021 return now, they could claim $4,200 — $1,400 each plus $1,400 for their child.
How to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus in 2025
Even though the payment is based on 2021, you must file a 2021 tax return (or amend one) to claim it.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Confirm Your Filing Status
If you already filed a 2021 tax return, check whether you claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit on Line 30 of IRS Form 1040.
If not, you’ll need to file or amend your 2021 return.
2. File Your 2021 Return
Use:
- IRS Free File
- A trusted tax preparer
- IRS-approved software
Even if your income was zero, you can still file and qualify.
3. Enter the Credit on Line 30
On Form 1040 (2021), enter the amount you believe you’re owed on Line 30. The IRS will compare your claim to their payment records and issue a refund if you’re eligible.
4. Track Your Refund
Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool at IRS.gov to follow your payment status. Refunds typically arrive in 2 to 8 weeks, depending on accuracy and volume.
Why This Matters: More Than Just a Check
The $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit can make a real difference — especially for families, gig workers, students, and retirees who may have been overlooked. According to the U.S. Treasury, stimulus checks helped lift nearly 12 million Americans out of poverty in 2021.
Common Uses:
- Catching up on rent or bills
- Paying down debt
- Buying groceries or medical supplies
- Saving for emergencies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Filing the wrong tax year | Only the 2021 return qualifies for this credit |
| Forgetting dependents | You may miss out on $1,400 per child |
| Assuming no income = no credit | Even with $0 income, you still qualify |
| Falling for scams | The IRS does not contact via email, text, or social media |
Final Reminder: Don’t Leave Money Behind
The clock is ticking. The final day to claim your $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025. That’s your last chance to file a 2021 return and receive the stimulus you may have missed. Whether you’re just now learning about it or assumed you weren’t eligible — it’s worth double-checking.
FAQs
Is this a new stimulus check?
No. This is a retroactive credit for the third round of 2021 stimulus payment
What if I had a new baby in 2021?
You may be eligible for an additional $1,400 if the child wasn’t included on your original return.
