The IRS is urging taxpayers to take action before the upcoming April 15, 2025 deadline to claim a stimulus payment of up to $1,400 through the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC). If you missed out on one or more of the stimulus payments during the COVID-19 pandemic, this could be your last chance to get the money you’re owed.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC)?
The Recovery Rebate Credit was introduced during the pandemic to help individuals and families receive financial support. It’s available to those who either didn’t get the full amount of stimulus payments or missed them altogether.
While most people claimed this credit when they filed their 2021 tax returns, the IRS discovered that about 1 million eligible taxpayers either didn’t claim the credit or entered $0 by mistake. As a result, the IRS began automatically sending out payments to fix this oversight.
Who Is Receiving Automatic Payments?
The good news is that many eligible taxpayers don’t have to do anything right now. If you filed a 2021 tax return but didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, the IRS has already started sending payments directly to you.
Automatic payments began in December 2024, and most of these payments were issued by the end of January 2025. Payments were sent via direct deposit or paper checks, depending on the method you selected when filing your taxes.
Additionally, if you’re eligible, you should have received a notification letter confirming your payment details.
Haven’t Filed Yet? You Still Have Time!
If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, don’t panic—but don’t wait either. The IRS has set April 15, 2025, as the final deadline for individuals who missed filing in 2021. Even if you had no income or minimal earnings that year, you could still qualify for the stimulus check.
Filing your 2021 tax return is the only way to claim the money if you didn’t get the automatic payment. Many people, such as those with low or no income, may have skipped filing their taxes, but they are strongly encouraged to submit their returns now.
How Much Money Could You Receive?
Eligible individuals can receive up to $1,400 per person. For families, the total payment could be much higher—potentially up to $2,800 for married couples filing jointly and an additional $1,400 for each dependent.
For example, a family of four could receive a payment of $5,600 if they qualify for the full amount.
How to Check If You’re Eligible
You can visit the IRS website or contact a tax professional to confirm if you qualify. If you didn’t receive a stimulus payment or believe you’re owed more, filing the 2021 tax return is key to unlocking these funds.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you fail to file by April 15, 2025, you’ll miss out on the chance to claim this credit forever. This could mean losing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars that you’re entitled to.
Key Takeaways
- Automatic payments: The IRS has already issued payments to eligible individuals who filed 2021 returns but didn’t claim the credit.
- Non-filers need to act: If you didn’t file in 2021, you must do so by April 15, 2025, to receive the credit.
- Eligibility: Even those with low or no income may qualify for up to $1,400.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to receive the financial support you deserve. Filing is easy, and it could make a big difference for you and your family. Visit the IRS website for details or consult a tax professional today.
