The IRS is sending out $2.4 billion in stimulus checks, but here’s the catch — these payments are meant for people who missed out on the Recovery Rebate Credit back in 2021. If you didn’t receive your third stimulus check or forgot to claim it on your tax return, this is your shot to fix it.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how to file or amend your taxes, and what you need to do to make sure you get what’s owed to you.
What’s This Stimulus Check All About?
This isn’t a “new” stimulus check — it’s money you may have been eligible for during the third round of payments under the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021.
Some people never received it because:
- They didn’t file taxes that year
- Their income or dependent info changed
- They made a mistake on their return
Now, the IRS is giving those people a second chance — up to $1,400 per person, plus more for eligible dependents.
Who Can Still Get This Payment?
To qualify for this money, a few things have to line up:
1. You didn’t get the third stimulus check
If you were eligible but didn’t receive it, this is your chance to claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit.
2. Your 2021 income was within the limits
- Single: Up to $80,000
- Head of household: Up to $120,000
- Married filing jointly: Up to $160,000
If you made slightly more, you might still get a partial payment.
3. You were a U.S. citizen or resident in 2021
You had to be living legally in the U.S. at the time to qualify.
4. You weren’t claimed as a dependent by someone else
If someone claimed you (like your parents), you won’t get your own check — but they might have received more on your behalf.
How to Apply or Fix It
Whether you never filed a 2021 tax return or you did but missed the credit, here’s what to do:
🔹 Step 1: Check if You Already Got It
Head over to the IRS Get My Payment Tool and see if your check was issued.
🔹 Step 2: File or Amend Your 2021 Tax Return
- If you didn’t file: You’ll need to submit a 2021 return, even if you had no income.
- If you filed but missed the credit: File an amended return (Form 1040-X) and fill out the Recovery Rebate Credit section correctly.
🔹 Step 3: Track Your Payment
Once filed, the IRS will process your credit and issue payment through:
- Direct deposit (if you provide bank details)
- Paper check (if not)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | How to Fix It |
|---|---|
| Missing the April 15, 2025 deadline | File early to avoid last-minute issues |
| Wrong bank info | Double-check routing and account numbers |
| Forgetting dependents | Add eligible children or dependents to get full credit |
| Ignoring IRS notices | Always open and respond to IRS mail |
Example: How Much Could You Get?
Let’s say you’re a single parent with two kids and you didn’t get the third stimulus:
- You: $1,400
- Kid #1: $1,400
- Kid #2: $1,400
Total: $4,200 — and that’s money you could still claim today.
Extra Tips
- Use IRS.gov to file or amend easily
- Save proof of your filing in case you need to follow up
- Ask a tax pro if you’re unsure how to fix past returns
- Act now, even though the deadline is April 2025 — faster is better
🗨️ Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What if I didn’t file taxes in 2021?
You can still file late and claim the credit — but don’t wait until the deadline.
Q.Is the payment taxable?
No, stimulus checks and Recovery Rebate Credits are not taxable.
Q.Can I still get the check if I’ve moved or changed banks?
Yes — just make sure your address and bank info are updated on your return.
Q.I got the first two stimulus checks. Why didn’t I get the third?
Could be due to a filing issue, income change, or dependent status. Filing an amended return is your best bet.
⏳ Final Reminder
The IRS has $2.4 billion still waiting to be claimed. If you think you missed out on your $1,400 stimulus, now’s the time to check and fix it. File or amend your 2021 return by April 15, 2025 — and make sure you’re not leaving money behind.