Some Americans may still be eligible for a stimulus check worth up to $1,400, according to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The agency recently announced that taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns could still receive these payments.
Automatic Payments for Eligible Taxpayers
The IRS has already started sending payments to eligible individuals. The best part? No action is required for those who qualify. The IRS is automatically processing these payments, ensuring that taxpayers do not need to go through the hassle of filing an amended return.
“The IRS continues to work hard to make improvements and help taxpayers,” IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel stated. “These payments are an example of our commitment to go the extra mile for taxpayers. We realized that one million taxpayers overlooked claiming this complex credit when they were actually eligible.”
Deadline to Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
Taxpayers who have not yet received the payment still have time to claim it. The deadline to file a 2021 tax return and qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive the full $1,400 stimulus check, individuals must meet certain income and filing status requirements. The following table breaks down eligibility details:
| Filing Status | Maximum AGI for Full Payment | Phase-Out Limit | Maximum Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 | $1,400 |
| Married (Jointly) | $150,000 | $160,000 | $2,800 (for couple) |
| Dependents | No income limit | Not applicable | $1,400 per dependent |
Background on Economic Impact Payments
The stimulus checks, also known as Economic Impact Payments (EIP), were issued during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide financial relief. The Recovery Rebate Credit is designed to ensure that individuals who missed out on previous payments can still receive their funds.
The IRS estimates that about $2.4 billion in payments will be distributed under this program.
How to Check Your Eligibility
- If you believe you qualify but haven’t received a payment, visit the IRS website or use the IRS Get My Payment tool.
- Ensure you have filed your 2021 tax return before the April 15, 2025 deadline.
By making these payments automatic, the IRS aims to reduce stress for taxpayers and ensure that eligible individuals receive the financial assistance they deserve. If you haven’t yet claimed your Recovery Rebate Credit, make sure to check your status and file your return in time.
Leave a Reply