IRS $1,400 Stimulus Payment 2025 – What to Do If Your Deposit Hasn’t Arrived Yet

If you’re asking, “Where’s my $1,400 stimulus check?” in 2025, you’re not the only one. Many people still haven’t received this third round of stimulus aid from the IRS. But here’s the good news: you can still claim it—if you act fast. The $1,400 payment was part of the American Rescue Plan passed in 2021, and your last chance to get it is by filing a 2021 tax return before the final deadline of May 15, 2025.

Overview

The $1,400 stimulus check came as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, helping Americans hit hard by the pandemic. While most payments were issued back then, many eligible people never got theirs. If that’s you, you may still be able to claim it through the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.

Here’s a quick overview:

Background

This $1,400 check was the third Economic Impact Payment (EIP 3), following earlier rounds of $1,200 and $600. It was meant to support low- and middle-income Americans during the COVID-19 crisis. While most payments were delivered in 2021, issues like incorrect info, missed filings, or IRS errors left some people without their payment.

Eligibility

To get the full $1,400, you had to meet these criteria:

• Income Requirements:
  • Single: AGI up to $75,000
  • Head of Household: AGI up to $112,500
  • Married Filing Jointly: AGI up to $150,000
  • Payments phased out above these levels, cutting off at $80,000, $120,000, and $160,000
• Valid Social Security Number:
  Everyone listed must have one (military exceptions apply)
• Dependency Status:
  You must not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
• Residency:
  Must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien

Recovery Rebate Credit

If you didn’t get your $1,400—or didn’t get the full amount—you can still receive it by claiming the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. This is not a loan. It’s a refundable credit, meaning the IRS will send you the money as part of your refund.

Even if you don’t owe taxes, filing this return can still get you the payment.

How to Claim It in 2025

1. Check IRS Records
Go to your IRS Online Account to see if a payment was sent. If it was, and you never got it, you’ll need to request a payment trace.

2. File a 2021 Return
Use tax software or hire a professional. Include the Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet to calculate your eligible amount. Filing electronically is faster.

3. Request a Payment Trace
If the IRS says your check was issued but you never received it:

• Complete IRS Form 3911
• Write “EIP3” at the top
• Mail or fax to the address based on your location
• Tracing can take 6 weeks, so don’t delay

Mistakes to Avoid

Errors can slow your refund or cause denial:

• Filing the wrong tax year: Only a 2021 return works for this credit
• Wrong income info: Use your 2021 AGI
• Claimed as a dependent: You won’t qualify if someone else claimed you
• Outdated info: Make sure banking and mailing details are current

When Will You Get Paid?

Here’s a rough timeline:

Direct deposit is the fastest and safest option.

Should You Use a Tax Pro?

If you haven’t filed in a while, or you’re unsure how to do a 2021 return, a tax professional can be a big help. They’ll:

• Check your eligibility
• File correctly and on time
• Avoid refund delays

Time is short—May 15, 2025, is the last day to file your 2021 return and claim the $1,400 stimulus. If you’re eligible, don’t let this money slip away.

FAQs