Time is ticking — and fast. If you’re one of the millions of Americans who never got that third stimulus check, this might be your final shot to cash in. The IRS is reminding everyone that April 15 is the absolute deadline to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, and missing it means waving goodbye to that money for good.
Let’s unpack what this credit is all about, who qualifies, and what you need to do right now.
Deadline
Here’s the deal: If you didn’t get the third stimulus check — the one worth up to $1,400 per person — you could still be owed money. But, and this is a big “but,” you must file a 2021 tax return to claim it. And that deadline? It’s April 15, 2025.
Yep, you get three years from the original due date (which was in 2022), and after that, the money officially goes back to the U.S. Treasury. No exceptions. No extensions. No second chances.
Eligibility
Wondering if you’re eligible? You are if:
- You didn’t receive the third stimulus payment in 2021.
- Your income met the thresholds for eligibility.
- You haven’t already claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- You either didn’t file a 2021 tax return or filed but didn’t check the proper box for the credit.
This was all part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, meant to help folks bounce back from the financial hit of the pandemic. And the IRS has the green light to send that money if you qualify — but only if you file your return.
Amounts
So how much are we talking here? It depends on your income and filing status. Check out this breakdown:
| Filing Status | Income Limit for Full Amount | Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 or less | $1,400 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 or less | $1,400 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 or less (combined) | $2,800 total |
If you made above those limits, the amount starts to phase out and disappears entirely once you reach $80,000 (single) or $160,000 (married couples).
Filing
If you’re unsure whether you filed for 2021, you can check your tax records using the IRS website or call them for assistance. For those who filed but didn’t check the Recovery Rebate Credit box, you might need to amend your return.
Also, the IRS can issue your payment via direct deposit or a paper check, depending on the information from your most recent tax return. If you’ve moved or changed banks, now’s the time to double-check your info.
Urgency
Here’s the bottom line: If you don’t act before April 15, the credit disappears forever. The government doesn’t owe you after that, even if you were technically eligible. It’s your responsibility to file and claim it.
So, if you’re sitting on the sidelines thinking you might qualify — don’t wait. This isn’t just a tax thing. It’s your money, and it’s about to slip through the cracks if you don’t act now.
FAQs
When is the deadline to claim the credit?
April 15, 2025 is the last day to file for it.
Who qualifies for the Recovery Rebate Credit?
Anyone who missed the 2021 stimulus and meets income limits.
How much is the Recovery Rebate Credit worth?
Up to $1,400 per person based on income.
Can I still file if I missed 2021?
Yes, as long as you do it by April 15, 2025.
What happens if I don’t file by the deadline?
You’ll lose your refund permanently to the Treasury.
