Millions Can Still File for the 2021 COVID-19 Relief Payment Before Time Runs Out.
Over a million Americans could still claim $1,400 from the third-round stimulus checks passed under the 2021 American Rescue Plan. The key is to file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025—after that, any unclaimed money goes straight to the U.S. Treasury. Even seniors, non-filers, and others on low incomes qualify, so don’t assume it’s too late.
Key details on the urgent April 15, 2025 deadline for the Stimulus payment in the United States
The IRS announced that April 15, 2025, is the absolute cutoff to claim your missed 2021 stimulus (known as the Recovery Rebate Credit). If you never filed for 2021, you must submit a return now to get the $1,400. Remember, there is no penalty if you’re only filing to collect a refund. Already filed but forgot the credit? The IRS is sending automatic catch-up checks to about 1 million eligible taxpayers—no extra paperwork needed.
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Gather Documents | Collect any 2021 income statements (W-2, 1099) or SSA-1099. |
| 2. Get IRS Form 1040 | Download the 2021 forms from IRS.gov or request by mail. |
| 3. Complete Line 30 | Enter the full $1,400 per person if you missed it. |
| 4. Mail or E-File | File by April 15, 2025—postmark counts for mailed returns. |
| 5. Pick Direct Deposit | Provide bank details for faster payment. |
Once you have everything ready, ensure you send your return before the deadline. If you’re unsure how to file, consider free resources like Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or AARP Tax-Aide programs in your community.
Why some Americans are still missing out on their potential $1,400 payment from the 2021 Stimulus check
Many people assume they are ineligible because they had little or no earnings in 2021. In reality, you can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit even if you earned $0. Others thought Social Security or SNAP benefits canceled out the stimulus—this is false. Those benefits have no impact on your ability to receive the $1,400. Here is a list of common misconceptions:
- “I had zero income, so I can’t get the money.”
- “I’m on SSI or SSDI, so I’m not eligible.”
- “There’s a penalty for filing late just to get a refund.”
- “Dependents over 17 don’t qualify for any additional amount.”
Every point above is incorrect. If you (or your dependents) missed the third-round stimulus in 2021, this final window lets you reclaim it. Can you be fined for claiming it now? The short answer is no. The IRS will not penalize late filers who are owed a refund. If your 2021 return shows that you deserve the $1,400 credit, the government wants to give it to you.
Seniors and those on federal benefits often received automatic stimulus payments back in 2021. However, if you began receiving Social Security that year or had a unique situation, you might have been overlooked. Non-filers in rural areas can also miss out if they lack easy access to tax prep resources. That’s why programs like VITA and Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics offer free help nationwide.