As we head into 2025, some taxpayers are still filing their 2021 tax returns, seeking to claim any missed stimulus payments. If you didn’t file your 2021 taxes yet, you might be wondering if it’s too late to claim the COVID-19 relief check. The good news is, you can still claim the missed stimulus payments when you file your tax return, but there are a few important details to keep in mind.
What is the 2021 Stimulus Payment?
In 2021, the federal government issued multiple rounds of Economic Impact Payments (EIP) to help families and individuals during the pandemic. These payments were issued automatically based on your 2020 tax return or other income data. But some people didn’t receive their payments or missed out due to certain circumstances.
The most significant payment was part of the American Rescue Plan, signed into law in March 2021. Eligible individuals received up to $1,400, and additional funds were available for dependents. If you didn’t receive the full amount you were eligible for, you may still be able to claim it when filing your 2021 taxes.
Can You Still Claim the Stimulus in February 2025?
While the original deadline to claim the 2021 stimulus passed, you can still file your 2021 taxes and claim the missing payment. The Recovery Rebate Credit is the way to claim this payment when you file your return. The IRS allows you to file late and claim the credit, even in 2025.
Here’s how it works:
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File a Tax Return: Even if you don’t usually file taxes, you need to file to receive the credit. This includes people who may not have had taxable income in 2021 or those who were not required to file due to low income.
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Claim the Credit on Your 2021 Tax Return: To get the stimulus payment, you’ll need to fill out a Recovery Rebate Credit form on your 2021 tax return (Form 1040). This will allow you to report the stimulus payments you’ve already received and calculate any extra payment you’re owed.
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Processing Delays: The IRS warns that processing returns filed years after the deadline could take longer. So, if you’re filing in 2025, be prepared for some waiting time before you receive your payment.
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Special Circumstances: If you didn’t get the full amount or there was a mistake with your payment, filing for the Recovery Rebate Credit could help you get the difference.
Why Are People Filing 2021 Taxes Now?
Many taxpayers are filing late for a variety of reasons. Some may have missed the deadline or weren’t aware they were eligible for the stimulus payments. Others are filing to claim other relief programs, like the Expanded Child Tax Credit. Tax professionals report that some people are filing late returns now to take advantage of all the credits available to them from 2021.
What Should You Do Next?
If you think you’re eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit, don’t delay. Filing your 2021 taxes now could be your chance to get the missed stimulus payment. Make sure you gather the right documents, such as the IRS Notice 1444, which details your previous payments, and proof of income to avoid any issues with your claim.
Even though the deadline for filing 2021 taxes has passed, it’s not too late to claim what you’re owed. With the right paperwork and some patience for the IRS processing, you could still get the stimulus check, even in February 2025.
