The IRS will send checks of up to $1,400 in January 2025 to those who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return. Find out if you qualify for the new IRS stimulus checks. Learn how to check your eligibility and receive your payment.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has good news: in January 2025, new stimulus checks of up to $1,400 will be sent out. These payments are for those who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return. If you’re wondering whether you’re one of the recipients, we’ll explain everything step by step.
What is the Recovery Rebate Stimulus Check Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is essentially a way to receive the economic stimulus payments that were distributed during the pandemic. If you did not receive the Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) in 2020 or 2021, or only received part of them, you could claim that money on your 2021 tax return. It’s a benefit designed to compensate those who, for any reason, did not receive the original stimulus checks.
Who can receive this new check?
Not everyone will qualify, but if you meet certain specific criteria, you could be on the list of recipients. Let’s break it down. You did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2021: If you filed your return that year and did not request this credit, you could automatically qualify for the check.
Your income is within the limits:
- Up to $75,000 for single filers.
- Up to $112,500 for heads of household.
- Up to $150,000 for married couples filing jointly.
If your income exceeds these limits, the payment begins to gradually reduce and disappears completely at:
- $80,000 for single filers.
- $120,000 for heads of household.
- $160,000 for married couples.
Valid Social Security Number: You and your dependents must have a valid Social Security Number issued before filing the return.
How will you receive the payment?
The best part is that you don’t have to do anything if you already filed your 2021 tax return. The IRS will send the payments automatically:
- Direct deposit: If you provided your bank account information on your return, the money will be directly deposited.
- Check by mail: If you did not provide banking information, the IRS will send a physical check to the address on file.
What if you didn’t file your 2021 return?
You still have time. If you did not file your 2021 tax return, you can do so until April 15, 2025. This will allow you to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit and, in turn, receive the stimulus check.
The IRS will send letters to eligible taxpayers. But you can also check it yourself:
- Log in to your account on the official IRS website.
- If you have doubts or think you qualify but do not receive the check, contact the IRS or seek tax advice.
Some things to keep in mind
- Payments for dependents: If you have qualifying children or other dependents, you could receive additional payments for each of them.
- Impact on future returns: This check will not affect your future returns or reduce other federal benefits you are entitled to.
- Beware of scams: The IRS will never ask for personal information by email, text messages, or phone calls. All official communication will be done exclusively by postal mail.
Why is it important to stay informed?
This stimulus check is an opportunity to get financial relief if you did not claim the credit in 2021. However, it’s important that you keep your information up to date with the IRS and make sure you meet the requirements.
The new IRS stimulus checks of up to $1,400 represent significant help for those who did not take advantage of the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2021. Be sure to check your eligibility, verify your details, and don’t miss the chance to receive this benefit. It’s a way to start the year with a bit more financial peace of mind.
If you haven’t filed your 2021 return yet, remember that you have until April 2025 to do so. Don’t miss this opportunity.