If you missed the third-round stimulus check back in 2021, the IRS is giving you one last opportunity to claim the $1,400 payment—but the clock is ticking. The official deadline to file and claim your payment is July 20, 2025. Whether you forgot to file, assumed you weren’t eligible, or overlooked the announcement, now is the time to act.
Millions of Americans—particularly students, low-income earners, and retirees—are still eligible but haven’t filed. This article breaks down eligibility, how to file, what documents you need, and real-life success stories of those who’ve already claimed their money.
What Is the IRS $1,400 Stimulus Payment?
The $1,400 payment was part of the American Rescue Plan passed in 2021. Known as the third-round Economic Impact Payment, it was designed to provide direct financial relief during the pandemic.
If you didn’t receive the payment, you can still claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit by filing a 2021 federal tax return—even if you had no income that year.
Who Is Eligible to Claim?
You may qualify for the payment if you meet the following criteria:
- Were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021
- Had a valid Social Security Number
- Were not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2021 return
- Did not receive the full third-round payment
Even those with zero income in 2021 can file and claim this credit.
Income Limits for Full or Partial Payment
| Filing Status | Full Payment Limit | Phase-Out Ends At |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
If your income falls within the phase-out range, you may still receive a reduced payment. It’s worth filing even if you’re unsure.
How to Claim the $1,400 Stimulus Check: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Your Social Security number
- A valid government-issued ID
- Any available 2021 tax forms
- IRS Letter 6475 (if received)
Step 2: Choose a Filing Method
- Use IRS Free File if your income was under $73,000
- Or use trusted software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or a local VITA site for free in-person help
Step 3: Answer Stimulus Questions Carefully
When prompted about your third stimulus payment, answer truthfully to calculate the Recovery Rebate Credit accurately.
Step 4: File Before the Deadline
You must submit your 2021 tax return by July 20, 2025. After this date, the IRS will not accept claims for the $1,400 stimulus.
Who May Receive Automatic Payments?
If you already filed a 2021 return but didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, the IRS may send you an automatic correction payment. Check your IRS online account to track payment status or update your banking info.
The IRS started processing these retroactive payments in late 2024, especially for those who didn’t receive the credit originally.
Real-Life Success Stories
- Maria, a single mother, filed in May 2025 and received $1,400 in under three weeks.
- James and Tanya, retirees living on Social Security, filed a late return and received $2,800 combined.
- Aiden, a college student with no income in 2021, filed and successfully claimed his full amount.
These examples show that millions can still benefit—if they act in time.
Pro Tips to Speed Up the Process
- Use IRS Letter 6475 to verify any past payments
- Keep all documents in a labeled folder: “2021 Taxes”
- Use the Get My Payment tool for updates
- Contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you run into issues
- Don’t assume you’re ineligible—double-check
Final Reminder
The $1,400 stimulus isn’t a loan—it’s money the government still owes to eligible individuals. But this opportunity is disappearing fast. If you missed it the first time, don’t miss your second chance.
FAQs
Can I still get the $1,400 if I had no income in 2021?
Yes. You can file a 2021 tax return even with zero income and still receive the payment.
What happens if I miss the July 20, 2025 deadline?
You lose your eligibility permanently. No exceptions.
How do I know if I already received the third stimulus?
Check IRS Letter 6475 or your IRS account online.
Do I need to repay the $1,400 payment later?
No. This is a non-repayable tax credit, not a loan.
Can college students or dependents file for it?
Only if they were not claimed as dependents on someone else’s 2021 return.