Millions of Americans are in for an unexpected financial boost as the IRS begins issuing surprise payments of up to $1,400. These checks are being sent automatically to taxpayers who missed out on claiming their full stimulus payments from 2021.
The IRS recently discovered that nearly one million eligible people never claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on their 2021 tax returns. Instead of making them go through the hassle of filing an amended return, the agency is now issuing these payments directly.
Why Is the IRS Sending Out These Payments?
During the pandemic, the federal government issued stimulus payments to help Americans facing financial hardships. The third and final round of payments, worth up to $1,400 per person, was part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
However, some people either didn’t receive the full amount or didn’t realize they were eligible. Many who failed to claim the missing funds on their 2021 tax returns left the RRC section blank or mistakenly entered $0. Now, the IRS is stepping in to fix that.
Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Check?
The payments are going out to individuals who were eligible for the stimulus but never received it or failed to claim it on their tax returns. The exact amount varies depending on each taxpayer’s situation, but the maximum payment is $1,400 per eligible person.
To qualify, individuals must have been eligible for the third stimulus check in 2021. The IRS has already identified who should be receiving the money, so if you qualify, you do not need to take any action—the check is coming your way automatically.
When Will You Receive the Payment?
The IRS started sending out these payments in December 2024. If you’re eligible, you can expect to receive your money by late January 2025. The payments will be direct deposited if the IRS has your banking information, or sent as a check in the mail if they don’t.
Additionally, the IRS will mail out official letters to notify recipients of the payment. So if you get one, don’t ignore it!
What If You Haven’t Filed Your 2021 Tax Return?
If you never filed your 2021 tax return, you may still have time to claim your missing stimulus money. The IRS is encouraging people who are eligible but haven’t filed to do so before the deadline—April 15, 2025. Even if you normally don’t file taxes, you might still be entitled to this payment, so it’s worth checking.
Final Thoughts
This move by the IRS is great news for those who unknowingly missed out on their stimulus payments. If you qualify, you don’t need to do anything—the money is already on its way.
However, if you haven’t filed your 2021 taxes yet and think you might be eligible, don’t wait! You have until April 15, 2025, to submit your return and claim your money.
