The IRS is rolling out a $1,400 stimulus check in 2025, aimed at helping those who missed the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC). If that sounds like you, this payment might be on its way automatically. But there’s a deadline to act if you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return. In this guide, you’ll find out who qualifies, how and when payments are sent, and what you need to do if yours hasn’t arrived yet.
Overview
This new round of payments is meant to fix past oversights. Many Americans were eligible for the 2021 RRC but either forgot to claim it or didn’t know they could. Now the IRS is stepping in to send what’s owed.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Stimulus Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
| Eligibility | Didn’t claim the 2021 RRC |
| Payment Start | December 2024 |
| Most Payments Sent | By January 2025 |
| Method of Payment | Direct deposit or paper check |
| Claim Deadline | May 15, 2025 |
So, if you left that Recovery Rebate Credit section blank or entered $0 on your 2021 return, you could be due a check.
Criteria
Still not sure if you’re eligible? Let’s break it down further.
Missed RRC
The biggest qualifier is not claiming the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. Around 1 million taxpayers missed this step. If that’s you, the IRS might send you a $1,400 stimulus check now.
Citizenship
You must be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien for tax purposes to qualify.
Income
Eligibility also depends on how much you earned in 2021. Here’s how the IRS breaks it down:
| Filing Status | Full Payment | Phases Out At |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Up to $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Head of Household | Up to $112,500 | $120,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $150,000 | $160,000 |
If you earned less than the full threshold, you should get the full amount. Earn more? The payment gets reduced and eventually disappears at the cutoff.
Dependents
You can’t be listed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return for 2021. If you were, you won’t qualify for the check.
Timing
The IRS began sending payments in December 2024. Most people will get theirs by the end of January 2025.
How
Your payment will be delivered based on how you filed:
- Direct Deposit: If the IRS has your bank info, the money will go directly into your account.
- Paper Check: No direct deposit info? They’ll mail a check to the address they have on file.
Didn’t Get It?
If it’s February 2025 and you still haven’t received your payment:
- Log into IRS.gov: Check your account for payment status.
- Update Address: Use IRS Form 8822 to update your mailing info.
- Watch Your Mailbox: The IRS will send a notice to confirm the payment was sent.
Action
If you never filed a 2021 tax return or need to amend it, you have until May 15, 2025. That’s your deadline to claim the $1,400 check. Don’t wait until the last minute—get your paperwork in now and make sure your info is up to date with the IRS.
This isn’t just free money—it’s a second chance to claim something you already qualified for. Check your eligibility, file if needed, and be ready to receive your payment before the deadline passes.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,400 stimulus?
Anyone who missed the 2021 RRC and meets income rules.
When will payments be sent?
Most payments go out between December 2024 and January 2025.
Do I need to apply for the check?
No, it’s automatic unless you haven’t filed a 2021 return.
How will I get the payment?
Via direct deposit or mailed check based on IRS records.
What’s the deadline to claim it?
May 15, 2025, if you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return.
