Many Americans still have a chance to claim the third-round $1400 Stimulus Checks through the Recovery Rebate Credit. If you missed the full payment in 2021, this is your last chance to get the money. The final deadline to file your 2021 tax return is July 15, 2025.
This payment could help you pay bills, clear debt, or save some money. But you must act before the deadline.
What Are $1400 Stimulus Checks?
The $1400 Stimulus Checks came from the American Rescue Plan. These were Economic Impact Payments meant to help during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you didn’t get the full amount, you may still be eligible. Reasons could include not filing taxes, wrong details, or missing updates.
You must file a 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit to get what you are owed.
Key Details at a Glance
Here is a simple table with important information:
Topic | Details |
Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
Deadline | July 15, 2025 |
Income Limits | Single: ≤ $75k (phases out at $80k) Head of Household: ≤ $112.5k (phases out at $120k) Married Filing Jointly: ≤ $150k (phases out at $160k) |
Eligibility | U.S. citizen or resident Valid SSN Filed 2021 tax return Not claimed as dependent |
How to Claim | File Form 1040 for 2021 and complete the rebate section |
Delivery Method | Direct deposit (faster) or mailed check |
Processing Time | Around 4–6 weeks |
Common Mistakes | Filing wrong year, missing credit section, missing deadline |
Scam Alert | IRS does not call, text, or ask for personal details |
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit helps you get the rest of your $1400 payment if you missed it.
This is a refundable tax credit added in the American Rescue Plan. Many got it automatically in 2021, but some people didn’t.
You can still file your 2021 return or fix it by July 15, 2025, to claim your money.
Who Can Still Get the $1400 Payment?
To qualify, you must meet the following:
- Your 2021 income must be within the limits:
- Single: up to $75,000 (phases out by $80,000)
- Head of household: up to $112,500 (phases out by $120,000)
- Married filing jointly: up to $150,000 (phases out by $160,000)
- You must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- You need a valid Social Security number.
- You cannot be claimed as someone else’s dependent.
- You must file a 2021 tax return.
Even if you earned nothing in 2021, filing is still required.
Why Did Some People Not Get Paid?
Many people missed their $1400 payment for simple reasons:
- They didn’t file a 2021 tax return because they had low or no income.
- They turned 18 in 2021 and were not counted before.
- They moved or changed bank details.
- Their personal life changed—like marriage, divorce, or having a child.
Almost 1 million people may still be eligible. You should file now before it’s too late.
How To Claim Your $1400 Stimulus Check
Here’s what to do to claim your money:
- File your 2021 tax return
Use IRS Free File or tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block. You can also mail a Form 1040. - Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section
Include how much stimulus you already got. The IRS will figure out the rest. - Submit before July 15, 2025
This is the final deadline. Late claims won’t be accepted.
If you do this properly, you’ll receive your full payment.
How Will You Receive the Payment?
The IRS sends your payment in two ways:
- Direct deposit – This is faster and takes about 4–6 weeks.
- Paper check – This is mailed to your address. It may take longer.
To get it quickly, e-file and choose direct deposit.
Mistakes To Avoid
Don’t let small mistakes stop your payment. Avoid these:
- Filing for the wrong year (must be 2021, not 2024 or 2025).
- Leaving the credit section blank.
- Missing the July 15, 2025 deadline.
Double-check all info before sending your return.
Be Careful of Scams
Scammers try to trick people during times like this. Remember:
- The IRS won’t call, text, or email asking for your SSN or bank info.
- They won’t ask you to pay to get your stimulus.
- No one can “speed up” your payment for a fee.
Always go to the official IRS website for safe filing.
Why You Should Act Now
This $1400 could help you with everyday needs. Many people use it to pay rent, buy food, or pay bills.
It’s money that belongs to you. But you must file before the deadline.
Don’t miss your final chance to claim it.
FAQs
Can I still get the $1400 check?
Yes, if you didn’t get it in 2021.
What is the deadline to file?
July 15, 2025.
What form do I need?
Form 1040 for 2021.
How will I get paid?
Direct deposit or check.
Do I need to pay to claim?
No, filing is free.