Millions of Americans could soon see a $1,400 stimulus check land in their bank accounts as part of a targeted IRS initiative. The payments, which began in December 2024, are expected to wrap up by the end of January 2025. But unlike previous rounds of stimulus checks, these payments focus on people who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns.
So, how do you know if you qualify? Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Payment?
To be eligible for this payment, you need to meet several important criteria:
- You must have filed a 2021 tax return. If you didn’t, don’t worry — you still have time to file before the April 15, 2025, deadline.
- Your income must be below certain thresholds:
- Single filers: Less than $80,000
- Heads of household: Less than $120,000
- Married couples filing jointly: Less than $160,000
- You can’t be listed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
These payments are specifically designed for those who missed out on the original COVID-19 stimulus checks due to filing or eligibility issues.
How Will You Receive the Money?
The IRS is making the process easy. If you qualify, you don’t need to take any action. The funds will either be directly deposited into the bank account listed on your 2021 or 2023 tax return, or you’ll receive a paper check by mail. Once the payment is issued, the IRS will also send a letter to let you know the money is on its way.
If you haven’t yet filed a 2021 tax return, it’s important to act soon. Even if you had little to no income that year, filing could still get you the payment.
What If You Haven’t Filed Yet?
If you missed the earlier rounds of payments, there’s good news. You still have time to file your 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. The deadline to do so is April 15, 2025. The IRS has encouraged non-filers and low-income earners to submit their returns, as many are unaware they qualify for this credit.
Don’t Fall for Online Scams
Lately, rumors have been swirling on social media about a new $1,000 stimulus program for 2025, but those claims are false. As of now, the only official payment being distributed relates to the Recovery Rebate Credit for 2021. Be cautious of misleading posts and rely on official IRS updates.
Final Thoughts
If you think you’re eligible, check your 2021 tax return or consider filing one if you haven’t already. This targeted payment could help many Americans recover financial ground they may have lost during the pandemic. For more information, visit the IRS website or consult a trusted tax professional to ensure you don’t miss out.
