$1,390 Stimulus Payment in May 2025 – Check Eligibility and Payment Date

There’s good news this spring for anyone who missed out on the third round of COVID-19 stimulus checks. The IRS is issuing a $1,390 stimulus payment in May 2025 to help eligible Americans claim money they didn’t receive back in 2021. Whether you forgot to file your taxes or didn’t know you qualified, this is your final shot at getting the relief you deserve. But you’ll need to act fast—the deadline to file is April 15, 2025.

Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, how to claim the payment, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

Overview

Let’s start with the basics. The $1,390 stimulus isn’t a brand-new payment—it’s actually a second chance to get the third Economic Impact Payment from 2021. The IRS calls this the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC), and it’s designed to help people who either didn’t get the full amount or missed the payment entirely.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

If you didn’t receive your full stimulus in 2021—or didn’t file at all—this could be your chance to catch up.

Eligibility

Wondering if you qualify? Here’s what you need to meet:

• You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien
• Have a valid Social Security Number
• File a 2021 tax return (if not already done)
• Meet the income requirements:

Also, you can’t be claimed as someone else’s dependent in 2021.

Example: If you made $70,000 as a single filer and didn’t get the third stimulus, you likely qualify for the full $1,390.

Steps

Getting your payment isn’t complicated, but you need to follow the right steps:

Step 1

• 2021 W-2s or 1099s
• IRS Notice 1444-C (if received)
• IRS Letter 6475 (shows any prior stimulus received)

Step 2

• File IRS Form 1040 or 1040-SR (for seniors)

Step 3

• This is where you claim the missed payment—look for Line 30.

Step 4

• Use IRS Free File if you earn under $73,000
• Or go with trusted tax software or a tax preparer

Step 5

• Use the IRS “Get My Payment” tool to track the check

Make sure your bank info or address is correct to avoid delays.

Mistakes

Missing out on this money is easier than you think if you’re not careful. Here are common mistakes that could cost you:

• Not filing because you think you don’t qualify
• Using the wrong tax year (it’s all about 2021, not 2023 or 2024)
• Forgetting to claim dependents born or added in 2021
• Missing the April 15, 2025 deadline
• Falling for scams—the IRS will not call, text, or email you asking for personal info

Double-check everything before you hit submit.

Advice

Experts say many people are still unaware they qualify. That’s why tax professionals recommend:

• Filing electronically to speed up your refund
• Reaching out to a CPA or using a free VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) service
• Reviewing any major life changes in 2021 like a job loss, marriage, or new baby
• Avoiding DIY tax software if you’re unsure about eligibility—it’s better to ask for help

Examples

Let’s look at a couple of people who might qualify:

John, 22 Years Old

• Was claimed as a dependent in 2020 but not in 2021
• Earned $20,000 in 2021
• Can now file his own return and claim the full $1,390

Maria and Pedro, Married Couple

• Filed jointly with $145,000 income in 2021
• Had a baby in December 2021
• Can file an amended return to include their new dependent and get the payment

This stimulus check could be a game-changer for people who thought they were left behind. If you haven’t filed your 2021 taxes—or if you’re unsure whether you got the full stimulus—check your records today. Time is running out. File by April 15, 2025, and claim the money you’re still owed.

FAQs