As of March 24, 2025, many Americans who haven’t yet claimed Social Security benefits may still be eligible for a $1,400 stimulus check.
This opportunity arises from the Recovery Rebate Credit associated with the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Eligible individuals have until April 15, 2025, to file their 2021 tax returns and claim this credit.
Understanding the Recovery Rebate Credit
The Recovery Rebate Credit was introduced to provide financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. It ensures that individuals who didn’t receive the full Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks) in 2021 can claim the missing amount on their tax returns.
This credit directly reduces any tax owed or increases the refund amount.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the $1,400 stimulus check through the Recovery Rebate Credit, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship or Residency: Must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident alien in 2021.
- Not a Dependent: Cannot be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s 2021 tax return.
- Valid Identification: Must possess a valid Social Security number issued by the due date of the tax return.
- Income Limits:
- Single Filers: Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) up to $75,000 qualify for the full payment. The payment phases out between $75,000 and $80,000.
- Married Filing Jointly: AGI up to $150,000 qualify for the full payment. The payment phases out between $150,000 and $160,000.
- Head of Household: AGI up to $112,500 qualify for the full payment. The payment phases out between $112,500 and $120,000.
Income Thresholds and Payment Phase-Out
The stimulus payment decreases by $5 for every $100 of income above the initial threshold, phasing out entirely at the upper limit. Here’s a breakdown:
| Filing Status | Full Payment AGI Limit | Payment Phase-Out Range | Ineligible Above AGI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | Up to $75,000 | $75,001 – $80,000 | Above $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $150,000 | $150,001 – $160,000 | Above $160,000 |
| Head of Household | Up to $112,500 | $112,501 – $120,000 | Above $120,000 |
Claiming the Stimulus Check
If you haven’t received the third stimulus payment or believe you received less than you were eligible for, follow these steps:
- File a 2021 Tax Return: Even if you aren’t typically required to file taxes, submitting a 2021 return is essential to claim the credit.
- Calculate the Recovery Rebate Credit: Use the worksheet provided in the 2021 Form 1040 or 1040-SR instructions to determine your eligible credit amount.
- Submit Electronically: Filing electronically ensures faster processing and quicker receipt of any refunds.
Special Considerations
- Non-Filers: Individuals who don’t usually file tax returns, such as those with very low income, should file a 2021 return to claim the credit.
- Social Security Recipients: Those receiving Social Security benefits who didn’t receive the third stimulus payment should also file a 2021 tax return to claim the credit.
- Deceased Individuals: If a person was alive in 2021 but has since passed away, their estate might still be eligible to claim the credit on their behalf.
Deadline Alert
The deadline to file your 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025. Missing this deadline means forfeiting the $1,400 stimulus payment. It’s advisable to file well before this date to ensure timely processing.
Even if you haven’t yet claimed Social Security benefits, you may still be eligible for a $1,400 stimulus check through the Recovery Rebate Credit. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, to claim this benefit.
Filing electronically can expedite the process, allowing you to receive your payment promptly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for financial relief.
FAQ’s
What if I didn’t receive any stimulus payments in 2021?
If you didn’t receive the third stimulus payment, you could claim it by filing a 2021 tax return and utilizing the Recovery Rebate Credit.
I wasn’t required to file taxes in 2021. Do I still need to file to get the stimulus check?
Yes, to receive the $1,400 stimulus payment, you must file a 2021 tax return, even if you had no income or weren’t required to file.
How will I receive the payment after filing the 2021 tax return?
The IRS will issue the payment as part of your tax refund, either through direct deposit or a paper check, based on the information provided in your tax return.