If you missed out on the third round of stimulus payments issued in 2021, there’s still time to claim your $1,400 stimulus check — but the final deadline is April 15, 2025. This money is available through the Recovery Rebate Credit, and millions of Americans still haven’t filed to receive it.
If you believe you’re eligible, now is the time to act. Below is everything you need to know about eligibility, how to claim, how much you may receive, and how to avoid missing the deadline.
What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
The $1,400 Economic Impact Payment was the third stimulus payment issued by the federal government in 2021. If you didn’t receive it at all — or didn’t get the full amount — you may still be able to claim the missing funds as a Recovery Rebate Credit when you file your 2021 federal tax return.
Even if you had no income or aren’t usually required to file taxes, you must file a return to get the money.
Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Did not receive the full third stimulus payment.
- Filed or will file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025.
- Have a valid Social Security number.
- Were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021.
- Income fell within these thresholds:
| Filing Status | Full Payment If Income ≤ | No Payment If Income ≥ |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
Dependents also qualify for $1,400 each, so a family of four could receive up to $5,600.
How to Claim Your Payment
- File a 2021 Tax Return
Even if you had no income, you must file to be considered. If you’ve already filed and didn’t claim the credit, you can amend your return. - Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
Make sure you accurately report the amount (if any) you received in 2021 so the IRS can determine how much more you’re owed. - Use Direct Deposit
Choose direct deposit to receive your refund faster. Double-check your bank details to avoid errors.
Key Deadline
April 15, 2025 – This is the absolute final deadline to file your 2021 return and claim the $1,400 stimulus check. After this, the funds expire and can no longer be claimed.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Stimulus Amount | $1,400 per eligible person |
| Tax Return Needed | 2021 Federal Return |
| Claim Method | Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Filing Deadline | April 15, 2025 |
| Income Eligibility (Single) | Full payment up to $75,000 |
| Income Eligibility (Joint) | Full payment up to $150,000 |
| Payment Delivery | Direct deposit or mailed check |
| Dependent Benefit | $1,400 per qualifying dependent |
The clock is ticking. If you haven’t claimed your $1,400 stimulus check, this is your final chance. With the April 15, 2025 deadline fast approaching, make sure you file your 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Don’t leave this money on the table — file now, qualify, and get the cash you deserve.
FAQs
Can I still get the $1,400 if I didn’t work in 2021?
Yes. You can still qualify even with zero income, as long as you meet all other requirements and file a 2021 tax return.
Will this payment affect my taxes or benefits?
No, the $1,400 stimulus is not taxable and will not reduce or interfere with other federal benefits.
What if I received part of the payment already?
If you received less than $1,400 or didn’t get amounts for your dependents, you can still claim the difference by filing.