In March 2025, the IRS confirmed that it will issue automatic stimulus payments to 1 million taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. These payments, which can be as much as $1,400 per person, aim to provide financial relief to those who missed out on the credit. If you’re wondering whether you qualify or how to receive your payment, this guide will explain everything you need to know.
Payment
The IRS has already started sending payments to eligible taxpayers. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Key Detail | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Target Recipients | 1 million taxpayers who missed the Recovery Rebate Credit on 2021 tax returns |
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per person, with extra for qualifying dependents |
| Income Limits | Single: $80,000, Head of Household: $120,000, Married Joint: $160,000 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or paper check |
| Distribution Date | By late March 2025 |
| Action Required | No action needed if 2021 taxes were filed |
| More Information | IRS official website |
If you meet the eligibility requirements and filed a 2021 tax return, you should receive your payment automatically.
Credit
The Recovery Rebate Credit was introduced as part of the COVID-19 relief efforts to help struggling Americans. While most eligible taxpayers received their payments in 2021, some people missed out. The IRS is now correcting this by issuing automatic payments to those who did not claim the credit.
This credit is refundable, meaning that even if you don’t owe taxes, you can still receive the payment. That’s why it’s crucial to check if you qualify and ensure you don’t miss out.
Eligibility
To qualify for the automatic stimulus payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Income Limits
- Single filers: Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
- Heads of household: AGI of $120,000 or below
- Married couples filing jointly: AGI of $160,000 or lower
- No Dependency Claimed
- If someone claimed you as a dependent in 2021, you won’t be eligible.
- Missed Claiming the Credit
- If you filed a 2021 tax return but didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (or entered $0), the IRS will automatically send you a payment.
- U.S. Citizenship and Residency
- Only U.S. citizens and resident aliens with valid Social Security numbers qualify.
Amount
The amount you receive depends on your filing status and dependents:
| Filing Status | Maximum Payment |
|---|---|
| Single | $1,400 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $2,800 |
| Dependents | Additional $1,400 per dependent |
For example, a married couple with two children could receive up to $5,600.
Distribution
The IRS is issuing payments automatically, so eligible taxpayers don’t need to take any action. Payments will be sent through:
- Direct Deposit: If you provided bank account details on your 2021 tax return, the payment will go directly into your account.
- Paper Check: If no direct deposit information is on file, a check will be mailed to your address.
Timeline
| Payment Method | Estimated Arrival |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Late March 2025 |
| Paper Check | A few weeks later |
To check the status of your payment, use the IRS “Get My Payment” tool on their website.
Missing
If you think you qualify but haven’t received your payment by mid-April 2025, follow these steps:
- Review Your 2021 Tax Filing – Make sure you filed a return and met the income requirements.
- Use the IRS “Get My Payment” Tool – Check the status of your payment online.
- Contact the IRS – If there’s a delay, call the IRS or speak with a tax professional.
- Claim on Your 2025 Tax Return – If you still don’t receive your payment, you may be able to claim it when filing your 2025 taxes.
Late
If you never filed a 2021 tax return, you can still claim the Recovery Rebate Credit by filing before April 15, 2025. This ensures you receive your stimulus payment and any other refunds or credits you may be eligible for.
Filing your taxes on time is the best way to ensure you don’t miss out on this financial relief. The IRS’s automatic payments are a great opportunity for those who overlooked the Recovery Rebate Credit, so be sure to check your eligibility and take action if necessary.
FAQs
Who will get automatic stimulus payments in 2025?
1 million taxpayers who missed the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2021.
How much will I receive from the IRS payment?
Up to $1,400 per person, plus $1,400 for each qualifying dependent.
Do I need to apply for the stimulus payment?
No, the IRS will send it automatically if you’re eligible.
How will I receive my stimulus check?
Payments are sent via direct deposit or mailed paper check.
When is the deadline to claim missed stimulus money?
You must file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025.
