Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government has sent out several rounds of stimulus payments, known as Economic Impact Payments. These were designed to help Americans navigate financial challenges caused by the pandemic. Now, in 2025, there’s a final chance to get up to $1,400 through the Recovery Rebate Credit if you missed your previous payment or didn’t get the full amount.
If you think you may qualify for this money, this article walks you through who’s eligible, how to claim it, and what steps to take to make sure you don’t miss out.
Overview
Here’s a quick summary of the most important facts about the 2025 $1,400 stimulus check:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Single filers under $75K, couples under $150K, HOH under $112,500 |
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per person, $2,800 per couple |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed check based on 2023 tax info |
| Filing Deadline | April 15, 2025 (for 2021 tax return to claim the credit) |
| Resources | Visit the IRS Economic Impact Payments page for the latest info |
$1,400 Stimulus Check
The $1,400 stimulus check in 2025 is part of a final round of payments called the Recovery Rebate Credit. It’s meant for individuals who didn’t get the full amount of stimulus money in earlier distributions. If you missed a check or didn’t claim the credit on your 2021 tax return, you still have time.
These payments were originally rolled out in 2021, but the IRS is giving eligible taxpayers another shot to receive them—especially if they didn’t file taxes back then or their income changed.
Who Is Eligible?
To receive the $1,400 check, you need to meet specific criteria:
Income Limits
Your adjusted gross income (AGI) must be within the limits:
| Filing Status | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 or less |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 or less |
| Head of Household | $112,500 or less |
If you earn more, the check amount gets reduced and phases out completely at a certain level.
Dependents
You can also get an additional $1,400 for each dependent, regardless of their age, as long as they were claimed on your 2021 tax return.
How to Check If You’re Eligible
If you filed taxes in 2021 and qualified, the IRS may have already sent your payment. You can check:
- Directly: Log into your IRS account to see if the payment was made.
- Missed payments: If you didn’t get it or got less than you should have, you can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 return.
Not sure about your status? Use the IRS online tools like “Get My Payment” or the Recovery Rebate Credit checker.
How to Claim the $1,400 Check
If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return yet, now’s the time. You must file it before April 15, 2025 to claim your $1,400.
Steps to Follow
- Collect Documents
Gather your 2021 tax forms—W-2s, 1099s, etc.—along with your dependent info. - File the Return
Use tax software or a tax professional to file. Even if you had no income, file anyway to get the check. - Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
There’s a specific section for it in the 2021 tax return forms. - Submit It
Once filed, the IRS will calculate the amount you’re owed and send the payment. - Track It
Use the “Get My Payment” tool on IRS.gov to see the status.
Payment Method
If you’ve provided banking info, the IRS will use it for direct deposit. Otherwise, they’ll mail a paper check to your last known address. So make sure your mailing and banking details are up to date.
Receive the Payment
Don’t panic if it doesn’t show up right away. Here’s what to do:
- Verify your eligibility and filing status.
- Check your tax return to make sure you claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- Use the IRS tools to check your payment status.
- Contact the IRS if something looks off—they can help you track it down.
If the issue isn’t resolved, you may still have time to file or amend your return before the April 15, 2025 deadline.
Tips and Resources
- Get help: Not sure what to do? A tax preparer or advisor can walk you through it.
- File even if you’re late: As long as you file before April 15, 2025, you’re good.
- Keep details current: Make sure the IRS has your right address and banking info.
- Use free IRS tools: Tools like “Where’s My Refund” and “Get My Payment” are updated daily.
Whether you’re catching up on past payments or helping someone else do it, now’s the time to act. With up to $1,400 per person still on the table, it’s worth checking your eligibility and filing that return. You’ve got until April 15, 2025—don’t leave that money behind.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,400 stimulus?
Single filers under $75K, couples under $150K, HOH under $112,500.
Do I need to file taxes to get the check?
Yes, file a 2021 return by April 15, 2025.
How do I track my payment?
Use the IRS ‘Get My Payment’ tool online.
Can I still claim the stimulus if I missed it?
Yes, through the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return.
When is the final deadline?
April 15, 2025 is the last day to file and claim it.
