If you’re still asking, “Where is my $1,400 stimulus check?” in 2025, you’re not alone. Many Americans never received the third stimulus payment issued under the American Rescue Plan in 2021. The good news? You can still claim it through the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit—but you must act fast. The final deadline to file your 2021 tax return and claim your payment is June 15, 2025.
Here’s everything you need to know before that window closes for good.
Overview
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
| Program | American Rescue Plan (EIP 3) |
| Claim Method | 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit via 2021 federal tax return |
| Deadline to File | June 15, 2025 (no extensions) |
| Eligibility | U.S. citizens/residents with valid SSNs, income under set limits |
| IRS Tools | IRS Online Account, Get My Payment, Form 3911 for payment trace |
$1,400 Stimulus Payment
This was the third round of federal stimulus checks issued during the pandemic. While most were sent in 2021, many eligible people never received theirs due to missed filings, banking errors, or dependency status.
The IRS is giving taxpayers a final chance to claim this payment as a refundable credit on their 2021 tax return.
Who Was Eligible?
To qualify for the full $1,400:
- Income Limits
- Single: Up to $75,000
- Head of Household: Up to $112,500
- Married Filing Jointly: Up to $150,000
- Payment phases out completely above $80K/$120K/$160K
- Valid SSN required
- Not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
2021 Recovery Rebate Credit
If you didn’t get the full stimulus, or any payment at all, the IRS lets you recover it as a tax refund via the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.
This is not a loan—it’s refundable, meaning the IRS will send you the money once your return is processed, even if you owe no tax.
How to Claim It in 2025
Log in to your IRS Online Account and view your “Tax Records.” Look for any mention of the EIP3 ($1,400) payment. If it says issued but you didn’t receive it, you’ll need to request a payment trace.
File a 2021 Tax Return
Use IRS Free File or a trusted tax preparer. On your return:
- Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section
- Enter your eligibility info
- Ensure all personal and banking details are correct
If you’re unsure, a tax pro can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Request a Payment Trace
If the IRS says it sent your check but it never arrived:
- Fill out Form 3911
- Write “EIP3” at the top
- Mail or fax it per IRS instructions
- It may take 6 weeks or more to process
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the wrong year: The $1,400 rebate is only for the 2021 tax return
- Incorrect AGI: Double-check your 2021 income (not 2024 or 2025)
- Being claimed as a dependent: If someone claimed you, you won’t qualify
- Missing payment info: Enter current banking or mailing address
When Will You Get Paid?
Once you submit your 2021 return:
- E-filed returns: Usually processed in 3 weeks
- Paper returns: May take 6 to 8 weeks, longer near deadline
- Direct deposit: Fastest way to get your refund
Filing close to the deadline could delay your refund, so don’t wait.
Should You Use a Tax Pro?
Yes, especially if:
- You haven’t filed in years
- You had income changes in 2021
- You’re unsure if you were claimed as a dependent
A licensed tax professional can help maximize your rebate and prevent errors that could delay or disqualify your refund.
Final Deadline
This is your last chance to claim the $1,400 stimulus if you missed it in 2021. There will be no extensions, so file your 2021 return as soon as possible to avoid losing the money forever.
FAQs
Can I still get the $1,400 stimulus?
Yes, if you file your 2021 tax return by June 15, 2025.
How do I claim the $1,400 payment?
File a 2021 return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
What if the IRS says I was paid but I wasn’t?
File Form 3911 to request a payment trace.
Can I file online for a 2021 return?
Yes, use IRS Free File or a tax pro to submit electronically.
Will the IRS accept 2021 returns after June 15?
No, June 15, 2025 is the final deadline to claim the credit.