If you missed out on the $1,400 stimulus payment during the pandemic, there’s still a chance to claim it — but only until April 15, 2025. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set this date as the final deadline to file your 2021 tax return and receive the Recovery Rebate Credit. This benefit is meant for those who did not receive the third round of federal COVID-19 relief payments back in 2021.
Who Can Still Claim the $1,400 Stimulus?
Even if you’re usually not required to file a tax return, you must file a 2021 return to claim this credit. Here’s how much you may be eligible for:
- $1,400 per eligible person
- $2,800 for married couples filing jointly
The IRS states that the Recovery Rebate Credit will either reduce the tax you owe or be added to your refund. In short, if you missed the third stimulus payment, this is your last chance to get it.
Important Income Limits
To qualify, your 2021 income must not exceed:
- $80,000 for single filers
- $120,000 for heads of household
- $160,000 for married couples filing jointly
Also, you cannot claim the credit if you already received the full amount or were listed as a dependent on someone else’s return.
What Other Benefits Can You Claim?
By filing your 2021 taxes now, you can also claim other pandemic-related benefits like:
- Child Tax Credit: Up to $3,600 per child
- Dependent Care Credit: Up to $8,000 in expenses
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Enhanced benefits for low-income individuals
These expanded credits were part of the relief efforts during the pandemic and are still available through your 2021 tax return.
How to File Your 2021 Tax Return
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to filing your 2021 return:
- Gather your income documents from 2021 (W-2s, 1099s, etc.)
- Download Form 1040 or 1040-SR from the official IRS website
- Enter your Recovery Rebate Credit on Line 30 of the form
- Submit your return electronically or by mail before April 15, 2025
The IRS offers help through its online guides and phone support in both English and Spanish. You can also get assistance from the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, available for people with income below $64,000, or use IRS Free File for no-cost electronic filing.
What If You File After April 15?
If the IRS owes you a refund, there’s no penalty for filing late. But if you owe taxes, you will face a monthly interest charge of 0.5% on the unpaid amount. That’s why it’s best to file before the deadline, even if you’re not sure whether you qualify — you might be eligible for a refund or credits.
Time is running out for anyone who missed out on the $1,400 third stimulus check from 2021. If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, you have until April 15, 2025 to do it and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Along with this, you could also benefit from expanded pandemic credits like the Child Tax Credit, Dependent Care Credit, and EITC. The process is simple, and help is available if you need it. Filing your 2021 taxes might bring you hundreds or even thousands of dollars — don’t miss your last chance.