At the end of 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) identified approximately one million taxpayers eligible for a special refund of up to $1,400. This refund was issued automatically to those who had not previously claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
The credit was part of the Covid-19 stimulus relief payments designed to assist individuals during the pandemic.
If you did not receive this refund automatically, there is still time to claim it, but the deadline is approaching fast.
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Who Qualified?
According to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, taxpayers eligible for the $1,400 refund did not need to take any action. The IRS automatically processed payments and issued refunds through:
- direct deposit to the bank account listed on the taxpayer’s 2023 tax return
- paper checks mailed to the address on file with the IRS
The goal was to ensure that eligible individuals received their money without needing to file an amended tax return.
Refund
Even though most payments were processed automatically, some taxpayers may still be eligible but have not yet received their refund. The IRS issued a statement reminding taxpayers that they must file a 2021 tax return to claim the credit if they have not already done so.
The deadline to file and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025.
Steps
If you believe you are eligible but have not yet received the $1,400 refund, follow these steps:
- file a 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025, even if you had little or no income
- claim the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing
- check your IRS online account to confirm past Economic Impact Payments
- use IRS FAQs on the Recovery Rebate Credit to determine eligibility
By completing these steps, taxpayers can ensure they receive any unclaimed stimulus money before the April 15, 2025 deadline.
If you are still unsure whether you qualify, visit the IRS website or consult a tax professional for guidance.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,400 refund?
Taxpayers who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
Do I need to file an amended return to get the refund?
No, the IRS issued automatic payments for eligible taxpayers.
What is the deadline to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit?
April 15, 2025, is the final deadline to file and claim the credit.
How do I check if I received the payment?
Log into your IRS online account to check Economic Impact Payment history.
Can I still get the refund if I didn’t file a 2021 tax return?
Yes, but you must file a 2021 tax return before the deadline to claim it.
