Did You Miss Your Stimulus Check? The Clock Is Ticking
Tax Day is right around the corner—Tuesday, April 15, to be exact—and with it comes a major deadline that many Americans might not even realize they’re about to miss. If you didn’t file taxes in 2021 or forgot to claim the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit, this is your final chance to get your money.
This isn’t just another tax season update—it’s the last opportunity to claim money that could make a real difference in your wallet.
Why It Matters
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government rolled out several rounds of stimulus checks to help Americans cope with financial hardship. But not everyone received them. In particular, millions who weren’t required to file taxes in 2021 never claimed the money they were entitled to.
That includes people with little to no income, older adults, and those who simply didn’t realize they qualified.
What You Need to Know
If you’re eligible for the $1,400 stimulus check, you must file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, to claim it. After that, the money gets sent back to the Treasury—and it’s gone for good.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Eligibility: You must have had an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less in 2021 if you were single, or $150,000 or less if married filing jointly.
- Didn’t file in 2021? You’re likely still eligible—but you have to file now.
- Already filed in 2021 but didn’t claim the credit? You might still be able to receive it.
Last year, the IRS automatically issued payments totaling $2.4 billion to around 1 million people who had missed the credit. If you were eligible and didn’t take action, you may have already received your payment by mail or direct deposit.
How to Get It
To claim your Recovery Rebate Credit:
- Gather your 2021 tax documents—such as W-2s or any income forms.
- File a 2021 tax return as soon as possible.
- Use your current banking information to receive the refund via direct deposit, or wait for a paper check in the mail.
The IRS recommends filing electronically to speed things up.
Expert Advice
Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group, emphasized the unique value of this credit. “What makes the Recovery Rebate Credit stand out is that it’s refundable,” he explained. “Even if you don’t owe any taxes, you can still receive the full amount.”
Financial educator Alex Beene added, “It’s surprising to many that some people never got their stimulus payments. But it’s true—and for those folks, this deadline is critical.”
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
Unfortunately, if you don’t file by April 15, you forfeit the $1,400 payment. The funds will be returned to the U.S. Treasury, and there’s no second chance.
Final Thoughts
If there’s even a chance you’re eligible for the 2021 stimulus check and haven’t claimed it yet, take action now. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when $1,400 is on the line. Reach out to a tax professional, file online, or use IRS Free File resources—but don’t wait.
April 15 is your last chance. Don’t let this money slip away.