The federal government is giving eligible taxpayers a financial boost this month with stimulus checks of up to $1,400 landing in bank accounts and mailboxes across the country. If you missed out on previous payments, you may be in for a pleasant surprise this February. But how do you know if you qualify—and what should you do if you don’t get yours? Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Can Get This $1,400 Stimulus Check?
The payments, which started rolling out in December 2024, target those who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. This could be because they weren’t aware of the credit or mistakenly left it blank on their forms.
You could qualify if your 2021 income fell below the following limits:
- Single Filers: Earned less than $80,000
- Married Filing Jointly: Earned less than $160,000 combined
- Head of Household: Earned less than $112,500
If you’re a single filer with an income of $75,000 or less, or a married couple earning $150,000 or less, you’re eligible for the full $1,400. For those earning above those limits, the payments gradually phase out and end entirely for incomes exceeding $80,000 (single), $160,000 (married), or $120,000 (head of household).
How Are Payments Being Sent Out?
Most payments will arrive automatically, meaning you don’t need to do anything if you’re eligible. The IRS is using information from 2021 tax returns to issue payments. Here’s how you can expect to receive your funds:
- Direct Deposit: If you provided your bank account information when filing taxes, the money will be deposited directly into your account.
- Paper Check: For those without bank details on file, a check will be mailed to the address provided on your tax return.
Keep an eye out for a confirmation letter from the IRS detailing the payment amount and method. If you don’t receive your payment by mid-February 2025, there’s still time to take action.
What If You Didn’t File a 2021 Tax Return?
Even if you didn’t file a return or had little to no income in 2021, you may still be able to claim the money. The IRS is encouraging people to file their 2021 tax returns before April 15, 2025. Once you do, you can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit and receive any stimulus payment you qualify for.
Here’s how to claim the credit:
- File a 2021 tax return using Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
- Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet to calculate your eligibility and payment amount.
- File electronically to speed up the process and get your payment faster.
Stay Alert for Scams
While the IRS is making sure eligible people get their payments automatically, scammers may try to take advantage of the situation. The IRS will never call, email, or text you asking for personal information or payment details. If you receive any suspicious communication, report it immediately.
What to Do If You Don’t Get Your Payment
If you don’t receive your payment by mid-February, don’t panic. First, check your IRS account online to see if your payment was issued. If you think you qualify but didn’t get the money, you may need to file your 2021 tax return or contact a tax professional to review your situation.
With millions of dollars in relief being distributed this month, now is the time to make sure you’re not leaving any money on the table.
Quick Takeaways
- The IRS is issuing $1,400 stimulus checks automatically to eligible taxpayers this February.
- If you missed out on claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit, you could still get the money.
- File your 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025, if you think you’re eligible but haven’t received a payment.
For more information or to file your taxes, visit the official IRS website at www.irs.gov.
