Washington, D.C. — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has reminded taxpayers that the deadline to claim the $1,400 stimulus payment from fiscal year 2021 is April 15, 2025. After this date, anyone who hasn’t filed a 2021 tax return forfeits their right to receive the benefit, per federal regulations.
The $1,400 payments were part of the American Rescue Plan passed in 2021 to help Americans weather the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. While millions received the payment automatically, many individuals—particularly those with lower incomes or without regular access to tax filing resources—missed out.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility for the full $1,400 credit is based on adjusted gross income (AGI) reported for 2021.
- Single filers earning less than $75,000
- Married couples earning below $150,000
Those earning above these thresholds may still be eligible for a reduced payment, depending on IRS calculations.
How to Claim It
The IRS estimates that over 1.1 million taxpayers are still eligible for refunds totaling more than $1 billion. However, if these individuals don’t act before April 15, the money will be returned to the U.S. Treasury and cannot be reclaimed.
To claim the credit, individuals must:
- File a 2021 federal tax return
- Include documentation such as W-2 forms or other proof of income
- For those who filed but missed claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit, an amended return is required
Refunds will be issued via direct deposit or mailed checks, based on information in the 2024 tax return. The IRS urges taxpayers to ensure their banking and mailing details are accurate to avoid delays.
Where the Money Came From
This stimulus was part of the American Rescue Plan, which offered several forms of aid to counter the pandemic’s economic toll. Unlike earlier rounds of stimulus checks, this credit requires eligible individuals to file a tax return—even if they weren’t required to file in 2021.
Experts warn that populations such as the homeless, elderly, or low-income individuals may miss the deadline simply due to lack of information. In response, community groups across the country are ramping up outreach efforts.
No Extensions Will Be Given
“It is crucial that taxpayers act now,” an IRS spokesperson said. “Every year, millions in legitimate credits expire unclaimed, hitting low-income families especially hard.”
The agency confirmed there will be no deadline extensions. After April 15, 2025, all unclaimed funds will permanently become property of the U.S. Treasury.