If you thought stimulus checks were a thing of the past, it’s time to double-check your 2021 tax returns. Why? The U.S. government recently rolled out a new series of Recovery Rebate Credit payments for taxpayers who missed out on claiming earlier stimulus checks. Starting in December 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began distributing up to $1,400 to eligible individuals, with more payments to come in 2025. Want to know if you’re eligible for the 2025 stimulus check? Keep reading for all the details.
What Is the 2025 Stimulus Check?
Unlike the federal payments in 2021, these 2025 stimulus checks are designed to help people who missed out on claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit back in 2021. The IRS announced that automatic payments of up to $1,400 will be sent to approximately one million taxpayers who were eligible for the 2021 credit but did not claim it.
According to Paul Carlson, CPA, managing partner at Law Firm Velocity, “This applies to people who didn’t claim the credit on their 2021 tax return but met the income limits at the time—$75,000 or less for single filers, and $150,000 or less for married couples filing jointly.”
You’ll need to ensure your 2021 tax form is filed by April 15, 2025 to receive the payment.
What is the Recovery Rebate Credit for 2025?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a refundable tax credit for individuals who didn’t receive one or more of the stimulus payments. Carlson explains, “It’s essentially a way to catch up on a missed stimulus check. If you didn’t get the full amount you were eligible for in 2021, this credit ensures you get what you’re owed when you file your taxes.”
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Stimulus Check?
To qualify for the 2025 stimulus check, you need to meet certain income and filing criteria. The IRS will be contacting eligible taxpayers, sending out letters to notify them of their eligibility. But if you’re unsure whether you qualify, the best thing you can do is file a 2021 federal tax return by April 15, 2025—even if you missed the deadline last year.
If you’re still unsure, you can visit the IRS website and use their “Get My Payment” tool. Carlson adds, “You’ll need to provide basic details like your Social Security number and filing status to find out if you’re eligible and how much you could receive.”
How Much Could You Receive?
The payment is straightforward: you can receive $1,400 per eligible individual, including dependents. If you’re married and filing jointly, that amount doubles to $2,800. For families with multiple dependents, the total amount could be even higher.
To determine if you’re eligible, you’ll need to calculate your adjusted gross income (AGI). Your AGI is the total income you earned during the year, taking into account various deductions like alimony payments or contributions to an IRA retirement account.
Once you know your income and filing status, you can use a stimulus calculator to get an estimate of your payment.
How to Get a Bigger Payment
Curious about getting a bigger payment? Carlson explains, “That all depends on future legislation and your income from the past couple of years.” If Congress passes additional relief measures, your payment amount could change. Keep an eye on updates from official sources to stay in the loop.
Stimulus Check Scams: What to Watch Out For
As more information circulates about the 2025 stimulus payments, it’s essential to stay alert for scams. Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or social media messages claiming to offer you a payment. The IRS will never ask for personal information or payments through these channels.
Carlson emphasizes, “Always rely on official updates from the IRS and your state government. Scammers thrive on misinformation, so it’s crucial to avoid falling victim to fraud.”
FAQs
1. I missed claiming the 2021 stimulus payments. Can I still get them?
Yes, if you missed the 2021 stimulus payments and are eligible, you can still receive them through the Recovery Rebate Credit when you file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025.
2. How do I know if I qualify for the 2025 stimulus check?
You can use the “Get My Payment” tool on the IRS website or file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, to ensure you get the payment if you qualify.
3. Can I receive more than $1,400?
Yes! If you have dependents, you could receive more. Each eligible dependent also qualifies for the $1,400 payment, and married couples filing jointly could receive up to $2,800.
4. What should I do if I’m contacted by someone offering a “special” stimulus payment?
Be very cautious. The IRS does not contact taxpayers via email, phone, or social media. Do not share any personal information or payment details with anyone claiming to offer you a special stimulus check. Always verify through official IRS channels.
Stay informed and proactive to ensure you don’t miss out on any potential payments you’re owed!