During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government issued three rounds of stimulus checks to help Americans facing financial hardship. The third round, valued at $1,400 per eligible person, was part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. However, many individuals never received their payment. If you’re one of them, don’t worry—there’s still a way to claim your missed stimulus check from the IRS.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to check your eligibility, claim your missing funds, and ensure you receive any financial assistance you’re entitled to. Additionally, we’ll address common misconceptions, provide troubleshooting solutions, and outline the future implications of unclaimed stimulus payments.
$1,400 Stimulus Still Up for Grabs—Find Out If You Qualify:
Topic | Details |
---|---|
Who qualifies? | U.S. citizens or resident aliens meeting income requirements |
Amount | $1,400 per eligible individual; $2,800 for married couples, plus $1,400 per dependent |
Eligibility Requirements | AGI below $75,000 (single), $112,500 (head of household), $150,000 (married) |
Claiming Deadline | April 15, 2025 (through amended tax return) |
IRS Official Website | IRS.gov |
If you missed your $1,400 stimulus check, you still have time to claim it! By checking your eligibility, using the IRS payment tools, and filing a Recovery Rebate Credit, you can ensure you receive the money you’re owed. The IRS allows claims until April 15, 2025, so act now and get your financial relief!
Understanding the Third Stimulus Check
The third stimulus payment was designed to assist individuals and families facing economic challenges due to the pandemic. Unlike previous rounds, this payment included additional benefits for dependents, with no age restrictions.
Changes from the Previous Stimulus Rounds
- Higher Dependent Payments: The first two stimulus payments provided lower amounts for dependents, but the third round allocated $1,400 per dependent, regardless of age.
- Income Phase-Out Differences: The income cut-off for eligibility was more strict, with a hard phase-out at $80,000 (single filers) compared to earlier payments that allowed partial benefits beyond these thresholds.
- Inclusion of Mixed-Status Families: Some noncitizen spouses were eligible for payments, provided at least one person in the household had a valid Social Security number.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
To qualify for the third stimulus check, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:
1. Income Requirements
Your eligibility is based on your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from your 2020 or 2021 tax return:
- Single filers: AGI under $75,000 (phases out completely at $80,000)
- Head of household: AGI under $112,500 (phases out at $120,000)
- Married filing jointly: AGI under $150,000 (phases out at $160,000)
2. Citizenship and Residency Requirements
- You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
- Nonresident aliens and dependents claimed by someone else are not eligible.
3. Dependents Qualify for Additional Payments
For each eligible dependent, you can receive an additional $1,400. This includes college students, disabled adults, and elderly parents claimed as dependents.
How to Check If You Missed Your $1,400 Stimulus Check
Many people didn’t receive their stimulus check due to errors, banking issues, or outdated records. To check your status:
1. Use the “Get My Payment” Tool
Visit the IRS Get My Payment portal to check your stimulus payment status.
2. Review Your Tax Transcript
Log into your IRS online account to access your tax transcript. Look for “Economic Impact Payment” (EIP3) entries.
3. Check Your Bank Statements
The IRS sent payments via direct deposit, paper check, or prepaid debit card. Review your bank records for an IRS deposit.
How to Claim Your Missing $1,400 Stimulus Check
If you never received your stimulus payment, here are the steps to claim it:
1. File a “Recovery Rebate Credit” on Your Tax Return
The Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) allows you to claim your missing stimulus check when filing your 2021 or 2022 tax return.
- If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, do so and claim the RRC on Form 1040.
- If you already filed, you may need to amend your return using Form 1040-X.
2. Submit an IRS Payment Trace (If Necessary)
If the IRS shows your payment was issued but you never received it:
- Call the IRS at 800-919-9835 or
- Submit Form 3911 (Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund) to request a trace.
3. Correct Any Banking or Address Issues
If your bank details or address were incorrect, the payment may have been returned to the IRS. Update your information with the IRS and your tax return.
What Happens If You Don’t Claim Your Stimulus?
Failing to claim your missing payment could mean forfeiting money that rightfully belongs to you. The IRS allows individuals to claim their Recovery Rebate Credit until April 15, 2025. After that date, unclaimed payments may no longer be retrievable.
Can the IRS Apply My Stimulus to Outstanding Debt?
In most cases, your stimulus check will not be garnished for debts, except for child support obligations or federal debts.
Potential Future Stimulus Programs
While no official plans for additional stimulus checks have been announced, staying informed about government relief programs can help ensure you don’t miss future payments.
$1,450 SSI Payment Coming Soon – Check Late January Payment Dates and How to Apply
$967 Monthly Boost for Retirees Aged 65 in 2025 – Find Out If You’re Eligible!
$2,000 Economic Relief via Direct Deposit in 2025 – Are You Eligible? Check Now!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I still claim my $1,400 stimulus check in 2024?
Yes! If you were eligible but didn’t receive your payment, you can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing a 2021 or 2022 tax return. The deadline for filing an amended return is April 15, 2025.
2. What if I didn’t file taxes in 2020 or 2021?
You must file a tax return to claim your payment. The IRS Free File tool can help you submit past-due returns. If you had little or no income, you are still encouraged to file to receive your payment.
3. Will the stimulus check affect my tax refund?
No, the stimulus check is not taxable income and does not reduce your refund. It is considered an advance tax credit and does not count as additional income.
4. How long does it take to receive the missing payment?
If you file a Recovery Rebate Credit, expect processing times of 6-8 weeks. An IRS payment trace may take longer, possibly up to 12 weeks.
5. Can I check my payment status over the phone?
The IRS phone lines are often busy, but you can call 800-919-9835 for assistance. The IRS online tools such as “Get My Payment” are the fastest ways to check your status.
6. What if my bank account changed?
If your bank details changed after filing your tax return, the IRS likely sent your payment to your old account. If the deposit failed, the payment may have been returned to the IRS. You may need to file a Recovery Rebate Credit on your tax return.
7. What if my check was lost or stolen?
If the IRS website shows that your payment was issued but you never received it, you may request a payment trace by filing Form 3911 or calling the IRS.
8. Can my stimulus check be garnished?
In most cases, stimulus payments cannot be garnished for debts. However, they may be intercepted for child support, unpaid taxes, or other federal debts.
9. Can I receive the stimulus if I was a dependent in 2020 but not in 2021?
Yes! If you were claimed as a dependent in 2020 but were independent in 2021, you may be eligible for the stimulus payment when you file your 2021 tax return.
10. Are non-U.S. citizens eligible?
Only U.S. citizens and resident aliens with a valid Social Security number are eligible. Some mixed-status families may qualify if at least one member has a valid SSN