IRS Sending $1,400 Stimulus Checks to Those Who Didn’t Claim Them

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Did you qualify for the third stimulus check in 2021 but never claimed it? The IRS has announced that it will soon send checks of up to $1,400 to nearly 1 million taxpayers who were eligible for the payment but didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns.

A Recap of the Stimulus Payments

Between 2020 and 2021, the IRS issued three rounds of stimulus payments to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic:

  • First Stimulus Check (2020): Up to $1,200 per individual.
  • Second Stimulus Check (Early 2021): Up to $600 per individual.
  • Third Stimulus Check (Later in 2021): Up to $1,400 per individual.

In total, the government distributed 476 million payments worth over $800 billion during this period.

Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Payment?

Most taxpayers already received their third stimulus payment in 2021. However, the IRS is now targeting individuals who:

  1. Qualified for the third stimulus payment but didn’t claim it on their 2021 tax return.
    • Example: If you left the Recovery Rebate Credit field blank or mistakenly entered $0 when you were eligible.
  2. Didn’t file a 2021 tax return but are eligible for the payment.
    • In this case, you can still file your 2021 tax return by the April 15, 2025 deadline to claim the credit.

When Will Payments Be Sent?

The IRS has confirmed that payments will be sent automatically—no additional action is needed if you’re eligible.

  • December 2024: Payments will begin to roll out.
  • Late January 2025: Most eligible individuals will receive their money by this time.

IRS Statement:
“We’re making these payments automatic,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, “meaning people won’t need to go through the extensive process of filing an amended return to receive it.”

How Will You Receive the Payment?

The IRS will send your payment via:

  • Direct Deposit: To the bank account listed on your 2023 tax return.
  • Paper Check: To your address of record if no bank account is listed or if the bank account is closed.

Important Note: If your listed bank account has been closed, the payment will be returned to the IRS, and a paper check will be mailed to your address on file.

Additionally, the IRS will send a notification letter to inform you about the payment.

Key Takeaways

  • If you didn’t receive the third stimulus check but were eligible, keep an eye out for automatic payments starting December 2024.
  • If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, do so by April 15, 2025, to claim your credit.
  • Ensure your bank account details and address of record are up-to-date to avoid delays.

For more information on tax deadlines or how to file, visit the IRS website or consult a tax professional.

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