Act Now: How to Claim Your $1,400 IRS Stimulus Check Before the April 15 Deadline

Time is running out for eligible taxpayers to claim their $1,400 stimulus checks from the IRS. The deadline to file your 2021 tax return and secure this payment is April 15, 2025. Missing this window could mean leaving hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars unclaimed.

What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check?

The $1,400 payment, part of the Recovery Rebate Credit, was designed to offer relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you didn’t receive the third round of Economic Impact Payments in 2021 or failed to claim the credit when filing, you may still be eligible — but only if you act now.

Are You Eligible?

You may qualify for the $1,400 stimulus check if:

You didn’t file a 2021 federal tax return: Millions of Americans are in this category. The IRS estimates over 1.1 million people have unclaimed refunds from 2021, totaling more than $1 billion.
Your income falls within these thresholds:
- $75,000 or less for single filers
- $150,000 or less for married couples filing jointly
- $112,500 or less for heads of household
You have qualifying dependents: Each dependent could entitle you to additional funds.

How to Claim Your Stimulus Check

1. File Your 2021 Tax Return

Even if you earned little to no income, filing your 2021 return is the only way to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. This process also opens the door to other unclaimed refunds and credits.

2. Check for Accuracy

Avoid delays by double-checking details like your:

Social Security number
Mailing address
Bank account info (for direct deposit)

3. Choose Direct Deposit

This is the fastest and most secure way to receive your money. If you opt for a paper check, be prepared for longer wait times.

Mississippi Residents: A Wake-Up Call

If you’re in Mississippi, this is especially urgent. Around 9,600 residents could still claim an average refund of $701 from 2021. Many just need to file to unlock these funds.

Bonus: Other Refunds and Tax Credits

While filing, look into additional benefits you might qualify for:

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Especially helpful for low- to moderate-income earners.
Child Tax Credit (CTC): Expanded in 2021, this credit provides a generous return for families with children.

These can often add hundreds or thousands of dollars to your refund.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

If you don’t file by April 15, 2025, you lose the right to claim your 2021 refund — permanently. The funds go back to the U.S. Treasury. There are no second chances.

Need More Time?

Can’t file by the deadline? You can request an extension by submitting IRS Form 4868. This gives you until October 15, 2025, to file — but keep in mind, any taxes owed are still due in April.

Take Action Today

Every year, millions in refunds go unclaimed simply because people didn’t file. Don’t let this happen to you. Filing your 2021 tax return before the April 15 deadline could secure your $1,400 stimulus check and other vital refunds.

If you’re unsure where to start, free tax prep services are available through local programs and IRS partners. This small effort could result in a major financial win.

Claim Your $1,400 IRS Stimulus Check Before April 15