$1,300 Stimulus Arriving in May 2025 – Check Eligibility and How to Claim

The spring of 2025 is bringing unexpected financial relief to millions of Americans—thanks to a new round of stimulus payments hitting mailboxes and bank accounts this May. If you missed out on the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, this $1,300 stimulus could be your second chance. But here’s the catch: you have to act fast, especially if you haven’t filed your 2021 taxes yet.

In this guide, we’ll break down what this new payment means, who’s eligible, how to claim it, and what pitfalls to avoid so you don’t miss out again.

Background

Back in 2021, the U.S. government sent out three rounds of Economic Impact Payments to help Americans get through the pandemic. The third round, under the American Rescue Plan, offered up to $1,400 per person.

But not everyone got what they were owed.

Between system glitches, missed filings, and general confusion, many taxpayers never received the full amount. The IRS later allowed those folks to claim the missing money as a Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return. Now, in 2025, they’re taking it one step further—sending out payments to anyone who’s still eligible and hasn’t claimed it yet.

Payment

Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming payment:

This is not a new round of stimulus—it’s just the IRS making sure late claims finally get paid out.

Eligibility

Your 2021 Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is the main factor for eligibility. If your income was within the qualifying range and you didn’t receive the full third stimulus, this money is likely headed your way.

Income thresholds by filing status:

Let’s say you were a single filer who made $70,000 in 2021 but never received your third stimulus or claimed the rebate credit. You’re in luck—you could be receiving nearly the full $1,400.

Claiming

Here’s how to claim the $1,300 stimulus, depending on your tax filing situation:

If you already filed a 2021 tax return:

• No further action needed.
• The IRS will send your payment automatically.

If you did not file a 2021 tax return:

• File it before April 15, 2025.
• Use IRS Free File (for incomes under $73,000) or a tax pro.
• Complete Form 1040 and make sure to fill out Line 30 for the Recovery Rebate Credit.

Mistakes

Even simple mistakes can cost you your payment. Here are some to avoid:

• Missing the deadline: No 2021 return filed by April 15? No payment.
• Wrong income info: Misreporting AGI can disqualify you or lower your amount.
• Skipping Line 30: That’s where the Recovery Rebate Credit must be claimed.
• Falling for scams: The IRS will never contact you by phone, text, or email to request personal info.

Stay cautious and double-check every detail.

Taxes

The best part? The stimulus isn’t taxable income. It won’t bump you into a higher tax bracket or increase what you owe next year.

However, there could be some indirect effects:

• A larger refund might slightly alter your eligibility for certain credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or health insurance subsidies.

If you’re unsure, ask a tax pro to help you figure out how this impacts your overall tax picture.

Tips

If you’re a tax advisor or financial professional, now’s your chance to help clients claim what’s theirs:

• Reach out to clients who haven’t filed for 2021.
• Offer quick-turnaround packages for late filers.
• Confirm direct deposit info to prevent payment delays.
• Remind clients that this money is not taxable.

Taking the initiative now can earn your clients extra cash—and earn you some serious trust.

The $1,300 stimulus check in May 2025 isn’t a handout—it’s money that many Americans were always owed but just didn’t receive. Whether due to missed filings or paperwork mistakes, it’s finally time to collect. But don’t wait. File that 2021 return, review your eligibility, and stay alert for IRS updates. It’s your second chance at relief—don’t miss it.

FAQs