Did you miss out on your stimulus payments during the COVID-19 pandemic? You may still be eligible for an automatic payment from the IRS. Many taxpayers were unaware that they could claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, and now, the IRS is issuing payments to those who didn’t apply for it on their 2021 tax returns.
If you think you might qualify, here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payment methods, and how to receive your money before the deadline.
Table of Contents
Eligibility
The Recovery Rebate Credit is available to individuals who were eligible for stimulus payments but did not receive them. However, not everyone qualifies. Here’s how to check if you do:
- You must have been eligible for the stimulus payments in 2021.
- You either left the Recovery Rebate Credit field blank on your 2021 tax return or entered “$0” in that section.
- You did not receive one or more of the Economic Impact Payments issued during the pandemic.
- If you already claimed and received your stimulus payments, you are not eligible for this additional payment.
If you meet these conditions, the IRS will automatically send your check or deposit.
Payment Amount
The maximum payment amount is $1,400 per eligible person. If you didn’t receive the full amount of the Economic Impact Payments, this rebate could cover the difference.
How to Claim
The best part? You don’t have to do anything! The IRS is automatically processing these payments for eligible taxpayers. Here’s how it works:
- IRS Notification – If you qualify, the IRS will send you a letter detailing your payment.
- Payment Method – The IRS will send the money via direct deposit (if you provided bank details) or paper check (if no direct deposit information is on file).
- No Need to Reapply – Since the IRS is handling this automatically, you don’t have to submit a separate application.
Tax Return
Even if you didn’t file your 2021 tax return, you can still claim your Recovery Rebate Credit by submitting it before the deadline.
Important Deadline
The deadline to file your 2021 return and claim your missing stimulus payment is April 15, 2025. If you don’t file by this date, you will lose your chance to receive the rebate.
Payment Status
Want to know if you’re getting a payment? You can check your IRS records using the Get My Payment tool on the IRS website or by reviewing your 2021 tax transcript. If you have any doubts, contacting a tax professional might also help clarify your situation.
If you were eligible for stimulus payments but missed out, this IRS action gives you a second chance to receive your money. Make sure to check your mail and bank account for the payment, and if you still need to file your 2021 return, do it before April 15, 2025!
FAQs
Who qualifies for the IRS automatic payment?
Anyone who was eligible for stimulus payments but didn’t receive them and did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
How much money can I receive?
The maximum amount is $1,400 per eligible person.
Do I need to apply for the payment?
No, the IRS will send the payment automatically if you qualify.
What if I didn’t file my 2021 tax return?
You can still file your return before April 15, 2025, to claim the credit.
How will I receive my payment?
The IRS will send it via direct deposit or paper check.
