The $1,400 stimulus check in 2025 is being issued to eligible taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on their 2021 tax return. The IRS recently announced that 1 million taxpayers will receive this one-time payment as part of an effort to distribute unclaimed stimulus funds from the COVID-19 relief programs.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify or want to check your payment status, this guide provides eligibility requirements, payment dates, and steps to claim your check.
Overview of the $1,400 Stimulus Check in 2025
Detail Information
Payment Amount Up to $1,400 per individual
Eligibility Criteria – Did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on 2021 tax return – Filed a 2021 tax return – Meet income requirements
Payment Distribution Direct deposit or paper check
Payment Dates Began in December 2024 and continued through late January 2025
Action Required No action needed if you filed a 2021 tax return
Deadline for Non-Filers File a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
Official IRS Source IRS Newsroom
The IRS is automatically issuing these payments to eligible individuals. If you haven’t received yours, check your payment status and ensure your 2021 tax return was filed correctly.
What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
The $1,400 stimulus check is a one-time payment issued by the IRS to taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on their 2021 tax return.
Why Are These Payments Being Issued in 2025?
• In December 2024, the IRS identified 1 million taxpayers who were eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit but did not claim it.
• To correct this, the IRS began issuing payments automatically without requiring individuals to file an amended return.
• This ensures eligible taxpayers receive their entitled financial support from previous stimulus programs.
For official details, visit the IRS Newsroom.
Who’s Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
To qualify, you must meet three key criteria:
1. You Did Not Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC)
• You left the RRC field blank on your 2021 tax return.
• OR you entered $0 on Line 30 of Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
2. You Filed a 2021 Tax Return
• You must have filed a 2021 tax return with the IRS, even if you were not required to file.
3. You Meet the Income Requirements
Filing Status Full Payment AGI Limit Phase-Out Limit
Single Filers Up to $75,000 Phases out at $80,000
Head of Household Up to $112,500 Phases out at $120,000
Married Filing Jointly Up to $150,000 Phases out at $160,000
Example Scenarios:
✅ Single Parent earning $60,000 → Eligible for the full $1,400 payment.
❌ Married Couple earning $175,000 → Not eligible (income exceeds phase-out limit).
To confirm your eligibility, visit IRS.gov.
How Will Payments Be Distributed?
The IRS is distributing the $1,400 stimulus checks through:
1. Direct Deposit
• Payments are deposited into the bank account listed on your 2021 tax return.
2. Paper Checks
• If no bank account was provided, a paper check is mailed to the address on file.
When Will Payments Arrive?
Payment Type Expected Timeline
Direct Deposit Began in December 2024
Paper Checks Mailed through late January 2025
To Avoid Delays:
✅ Ensure your bank account and mailing address are up to date with the IRS.
How to Check Your Payment Status
You can check the status of your $1,400 stimulus check using the IRS Get My Payment tool.
Steps to Check Your Payment Status
1️⃣ Visit the IRS Get My Payment portal.
2️⃣ Enter your:
• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Date of Birth
• Mailing Address
3️⃣ View your payment status and expected delivery date.
💡 Pro Tip:
To avoid payment delays, ensure your bank details and mailing address are correct in your IRS records.
What If You Didn’t File a 2021 Tax Return?
If you haven’t filed a 2021 tax return, you must do so by April 15, 2025, to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit and receive your $1,400 stimulus check.
How to File a 2021 Tax Return Now
✔ Use IRS Free File – Available on IRS.gov.
✔ Consult a tax professional – If you need help filing an older tax return.
✔ Submit Form 1040 or 1040-SR – Ensure you include Line 30 for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Final Thoughts
The $1,400 stimulus check in 2025 is being issued to eligible taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on their 2021 tax return.
✅ No action is required if you already filed your 2021 tax return.
✅ Payments began in December 2024 and continued through January 2025.
✅ If you missed out, you must file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025.
To check your eligibility and payment status, visit the IRS website.
FAQ
How do I check if I’m getting the payment?
✅ Use the IRS Get My Payment tool to check your status.
What if I didn’t file a 2021 tax return?
❌ You must file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Where can I get official IRS updates?
📢 Visit IRS.gov for official announcements.