As of May 28, 2025, the deadline to claim the $1,400 stimulus check is rapidly approaching. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set April 15, 2025, as the final date for individuals to file their 2021 tax returns and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC), which could entitle them to a $1,400 payment.
Understanding the $1,400 Stimulus Check
The $1,400 stimulus check is part of the federal government’s efforts to provide financial relief to individuals who may have missed out on previous Economic Impact Payments (EIPs). This payment is available to those who did not receive the full amount of the third round of stimulus checks distributed under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Eligible individuals can claim this payment by filing a 2021 tax return and claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the $1,400 stimulus check, individuals must meet the following criteria:
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Income Limits: Single filers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $75,000 or less, married couples filing jointly with an AGI of $150,000 or less, and head-of-household filers with an AGI of $112,500 or less are eligible for the full payment. The payment phases out for higher incomes, with single filers becoming ineligible at $80,000, married couples at $160,000, and head-of-household filers at $120,000.
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Tax Filing Requirement: Individuals must have filed a 2021 federal tax return. If you did not file a return in 2021, you must do so by April 15, 2025, to claim the credit.
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U.S. Citizenship or Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualifying resident alien with a valid Social Security number.
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Not Claimed as a Dependent: You must not be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.
How to Claim the $1,400 Stimulus Check
To claim the $1,400 stimulus check, follow these steps:
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File Your 2021 Tax Return: Use IRS Form 1040 or 1040-SR to file your 2021 tax return. Ensure all income and dependent information is accurate.
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Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit: On your tax return, complete the Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet to determine the amount you are eligible to receive.
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Submit Your Return: File your tax return electronically for faster processing or mail it to the appropriate IRS address.
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Check Your Payment Status: After filing, use the IRS “Get My Payment” tool to check the status of your payment.
What Happens If You Miss the April 15, 2025 Deadline?
If you do not file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, you will forfeit your eligibility for the $1,400 stimulus check. The IRS has stated that there will be no extensions or automatic payments after this deadline. The funds will become the property of the U.S. Treasury, and you will not be able to claim them retroactively.
Special Considerations
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Individuals Who Did Not File Taxes in 2021: If you were not required to file a tax return in 2021 but believe you are eligible for the stimulus check, you must file a return by the deadline. The IRS has emphasized that filing a return is necessary to claim the credit.
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Automatic Payments for Some Taxpayers: The IRS has begun issuing automatic $1,400 payments to approximately 1 million taxpayers who filed a 2021 tax return but did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. These payments are being processed without the need for amended returns.
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Dependents: Dependents are eligible for the $1,400 payment regardless of age. Ensure that all qualifying dependents are listed on your tax return to receive the full amount.
Final Thoughts
The $1,400 stimulus check represents a final opportunity for eligible individuals to receive financial relief. With the April 15, 2025, deadline fast approaching, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure you do not miss out on this payment. Filing your 2021 tax return promptly and accurately is the key to claiming your $1,400 stimulus check.