Many Americans are waking up to good news: the IRS is distributing over $2.4 billion in stimulus payments to around one million taxpayers who missed out on earlier relief funds. If you didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return, you could be eligible for up to $1,400 per person in financial relief.
Here’s everything you need to know about these forgotten stimulus checks, how to track them, and what steps to take if you think you’re owed money.
Who Qualifies for the Money?
The payments are part of a special effort by the IRS to help those who may have unintentionally missed out on their Economic Impact Payments during the pandemic. Specifically, individuals qualify if they:
- Filed a 2021 tax return.
- Didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit or entered $0, despite being eligible.
For most taxpayers, the maximum payment is $1,400 per person. However, the amount can vary based on your income and circumstances.
How to Track Your Missing Stimulus Check
If you believe you’re owed money but aren’t sure where to start, here are some easy ways to check:
- Use the IRS Online Account: Log in to your IRS Online Account to view your tax records. This tool shows whether you claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit or if you’re set to receive additional funds.
- Check IRS Notices: The IRS mailed specific notices about Economic Impact Payments. Look for:
- Notice 1444: Details about the first stimulus payment.
- Notice 1444-B: Information on the second payment.
- Notice 1444-C: Information on the third payment.
- Letter 6475: This confirms the total amount of the third stimulus payment for the 2021 tax year.
- Review Your Bank Statements: Payments were often sent via direct deposit. A quick scan of your bank records can confirm if the IRS sent money to your account.
When Will the Payments Be Sent?
The IRS plans to issue these payments by late January 2025. If you’re eligible, you don’t need to take any extra steps. Payments will either be deposited directly into your bank account or mailed as a paper check to the address on your 2021 tax return.
What If You Haven’t Filed Your 2021 Tax Return Yet?
Good news – it’s not too late! If you didn’t file a tax return for 2021, you still have time to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. Just file your return by April 15, 2025, even if you had little or no income that year.
Why This Matters
The IRS is taking steps to make sure everyone gets the money they’re entitled to, without needing to file an amended return. This proactive approach is helping millions of Americans reclaim funds they may have thought were lost forever.
If you think you might qualify, now is the time to act. Check your status using the tools provided, and make sure you don’t miss out on these critical payments.
