As the deadline looms, numerous Americans are still eligible to receive the $1,400 stimulus checks headed their way. These stimulus payments, a part of the federal government’s COVID-19 relief program, were meant to offer economic aid during the pandemic. If you have not received yours yet, it is important to know the eligibility requirements and the process to receive this benefit before it’s too late.
Understanding the $1,400 Stimulus Checks
The $1,400 stimulus payments, or the third Economic Impact Payments, were legislated in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The payments were issued to help individuals and households that were hit with economic distress due to the pandemic. While the overwhelming majority of eligible recipients received their payments automatically, some might have missed out and are still entitled to receive them through the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
Eligibility Criteria
To determine if you are eligible for the $1,400 stimulus checks coming your way, consider the following factors:
- Status: You must have been a United States citizen or United States resident alien during 2021.
- Dependency Status: You should not have been filed as a dependent on someone’s 2021 tax return.
- Valid Social Security Number (SSN): The SSN required is one on or after the due date of the return.
- Single Filers: Eligible for the full $1,400 if AGI was $75,000 or less; phases out completely at $80,000.
- Married Filing Jointly: Eligible for $2,800 if combined AGI was $150,000 or less; phases out at $160,000.
- Head of Household: Eligible for the full amount if AGI was $112,500 or less; decreases at $120,000.
Claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit
You did not get the third Economic Impact Payment or you got less than the full payment, and you can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return. Follow these steps:
- File a 2021 Tax Return: Even if you don’t normally have to file taxes, you must file a 2021 return in order to claim the credit.
- Calculate the Credit: Utilize the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit Worksheet available from the IRS to determine how much you are eligible for.
- Include the Credit on Your Tax Return: Enter the calculated credit on line 30 of your 2021 Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
Deadline to Claim
The IRS generally provides a three-year period during which to claim refunds or credits. April 15, 2025, is the deadline for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. After this deadline expires, unclaimed credits cannot be received anymore, so timely action is important.
Recent IRS Actions
In December 2024, the IRS was going to automatically send payments to eligible individuals who did not receive the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. The goal was to reach nearly one million taxpayers with a total of $2.4 billion. Payments were to be received by the end of January 2025, either by direct deposit into their bank accounts or through paper checks.
Steps You Can Take If You Have Not Received Your Payment
If you believe you are eligible for the $1,400 stimulus payments coming your way but have yet to receive them, take the following steps:
- Review Your Eligibility: Review the above eligibility requirements to see if you are eligible or not.
- Review IRS Correspondence: The IRS may have sent notifications of your payment status. Review correspondence for advice.
- Contact the IRS: If you are unable to determine your payment status, contact the IRS for assistance.
Evasion of Scams
Stimulus payment scams must be evaded. The IRS never contacts anyone by email, text, or social media to request personal and financial information. Official channels of information and communication by the IRS must always be employed.
Conclusion
The $1,400 stimulus checks that were part of the federal COVID-19 relief plan have provided badly needed assistance to Americans. If you have not received your payment yet, you should act quickly before April 15, 2025, . Knowing what you need to qualify and following the proper procedures in order to receive the Recovery Rebate Credit can help you collect the financial assistance you are entitled to. Keep yourself updated and act proactively in order to optimize this opportunity.
