You Might Qualify for the $1,400 Stimulus – Are You Eligible to Receive It?

The $1,400 stimulus payment is making a comeback for about one million Americans who may have missed out the first time. If you didn’t receive this payment when it was first rolled out, you could still be eligible. The IRS has opened the door for qualifying individuals to claim their funds, especially if they qualify through the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.

Whether you’re well-versed in tax matters or just figuring it all out, this guide walks you through the process. Let’s unpack who qualifies, how much you might receive, and what steps to take before the final deadline in April 2025.

Overview

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Here’s a quick snapshot of the key details around the $1,400 stimulus:

What It Is

This stimulus payment comes from the American Rescue Plan Act passed in 2021. Most people got their money back then, but the IRS recently discovered that a large number of people either didn’t file correctly or missed the credit entirely.

Instead of leaving money unclaimed, the IRS is identifying and notifying people who may still be eligible. This is happening through a credit called the Recovery Rebate Credit tied to your 2021 tax return.

Why Now

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The IRS regularly reviews past returns for unclaimed credits. If you were eligible for the third round of stimulus payments but never received it, you may now be able to get it—if you file (or re-file) your 2021 tax return with the proper information.

This review helps ensure no qualifying American is left out of the COVID-era financial relief programs.

Eligibility

Let’s get into the details of who can qualify:

Income Limits

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The payment is based on your 2021 adjusted gross income (AGI):

• Single Filers: Up to $75,000 gets full payment; phases out at $80,000
• Married Filing Jointly: Up to $150,000 gets full payment; phases out at $160,000
• Head of Household: Up to $112,500 gets full payment; phases out at $120,000

Other Requirements

• You must have filed or need to file a 2021 tax return
• You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien
• If you have qualifying dependents, you may receive additional payments per dependent

Examples

• A single person earning $70,000 with no dependents would qualify for the full $1,400
• A couple earning $155,000 with one child may get a partial payment based on the phase-out range

How to Check

Wondering if you missed out? Here’s how to find out:

1. Look at Your 2021 Tax Return
   • Check the Recovery Rebate Credit section. If it’s blank or zero, but you meet the criteria, you may qualify.
2. Log Into the IRS Website
   • Access your tax transcript or payment history. This shows whether the payment was already issued.
3. Call the IRS Help Line
   • If you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask. IRS reps can walk you through your situation.

How to Claim

There are two main paths depending on your filing status.

If You Already Filed in 2021

Good news—if you were eligible and filed correctly, the IRS should automatically send the payment to the account or address listed. You don’t need to do anything unless your bank details or address have changed.

If You Haven’t Filed Yet

Here’s what to do:

1. File a 2021 Tax Return
   • Use trusted tax prep software or visit a professional.
2. Include the Recovery Rebate Credit
   • This section will calculate how much you’re owed. Use the IRS worksheet or built-in software help.
3. Submit Before April 15, 2025
   • This is your last chance to claim the payment.

Important Tip

If your address or bank details have changed since 2021, update them with the IRS immediately to avoid delays.

FAQs