Stimulus Check 2025: Are You Eligible for the $1,400 Payment?

On: April 14, 2025 3:21 PM

Post Views: 46

Stimulus Check 2025 : As the world continues to recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S.

government is offering one final opportunity for eligible taxpayers to claim the $1,400 stimulus check originally issued in 2021. While this is not a new round of stimulus payments, it is part of the Recovery Rebate Credit program, allowing individuals who missed their third stimulus check to claim it by April 15, 2025.

Let’s break down everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?

The Recovery Rebate Credit is a tax credit issued by the IRS to ensure individuals who did not receive their full stimulus payments during the pandemic still have a chance to claim them.

The $1,400 credit specifically relates to the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIP3) issued in 2021. If you didn’t receive that payment—or didn’t get the full amount—you may be eligible to claim it in 2025 by filing your 2021 tax return.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility for the Recovery Rebate Credit depends on your 2021 income and filing status:

Single filers: AGI (Adjusted Gross Income) up to $75,000
Married couples filing jointly: AGI up to $150,000
Head of household: AGI up to $112,500

If your income was higher, the credit amount phases out and is eliminated completely at:

$80,000 (single)
$160,000 (married filing jointly)
$120,000 (head of household)

You must also:

Have a valid Social Security Number
Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien

How to Claim It

If you didn’t file a 2021 tax return, you must file it by April 15, 2025, even if you weren’t otherwise required to file.

Here’s how to claim the credit:

File your 2021 tax return (electronically or by mail)
Include the Recovery Rebate Credit section to claim your $1,400
If you’re unsure how much you received, check IRS Letter 6475 sent to you in early 2022

You can use the IRS Free File tool or consult a tax professional if needed.

Important Deadline

April 15, 2025 is the absolute last date to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for 2021.
If you miss this deadline, you permanently lose the chance to receive the $1,400 stimulus check.

You can request an extension (Form 4868) to file by October 15, 2025, but this does not extend the deadline for claiming the credit—it must still be filed by April 15, 2025.

How You Will Receive the Payment

Once your return is processed and the IRS approves your credit:

You’ll receive the payment via direct deposit or paper check
The IRS will send a Notice CP12 confirming the adjustment

If you already received the full amount in 2021, you cannot claim it again.

Watch Out for Scams

The IRS never calls, emails, or texts people to ask for personal details or banking info regarding stimulus checks. If someone contacts you claiming to help with your payment in exchange for a fee—it’s a scam.

Always check the official IRS website for reliable information.

Bonus: Other Credits You Might Qualify For

If you’re filing your 2021 tax return now, you might also be eligible for:

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) — Worth up to $6,728 for low-income families
Child Tax Credit — Up to $3,600 per child

Be sure to explore all available credits to maximize your refund.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 stimulus check opportunity isn’t technically a new payment, but rather a last chance to claim what was rightfully yours in 2021. Don’t miss out on this $1,400 payment—file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit if you’re eligible.

Need help filing? The IRS Free File program or a certified tax preparer can guide you through the process.