If you’ve been wondering whether you can claim the 2021 stimulus, here’s the good news – many Americans can still get their money, and the IRS might owe you up to $1,400. Even though the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIP) went out in 2021, there is still a way to claim it if you missed it. Whether you’re in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, or a small town in the Midwest, you may be one tax form away from a much-needed financial boost.
What Was the 2021 Stimulus?
The 2021 stimulus payment – officially the third Economic Impact Payment – was part of the American Rescue Plan signed by President Joe Biden in March 2021. Eligible individuals received up to $1,400 per person, plus an additional $1,400 for each dependent.
Who Can Still Claim the 2021 Stimulus?
You can still claim the 2021 stimulus if:
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You were eligible for the payment in 2021 but didn’t receive it.
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You got less than the full $1,400 per person.
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You didn’t file a 2021 tax return (even if you weren’t required to).
Key eligibility rules:
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Single filers with income up to $75,000.
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Married couples filing jointly with income up to $150,000.
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Head of household filers with income up to $112,500.
Even if you earned less or had no income at all, you may still qualify. Students, seniors, Social Security recipients, and veterans could also be eligible.
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How to Claim the 2021 Stimulus Now
The IRS will not send any more automatic stimulus payments – you must file a 2021 tax return to claim it. If you missed the deadline in April 2022, don’t panic. You have until April 15, 2025 to file and request the payment.
Steps to claim:
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Get your tax records – You’ll need any income information from 2021.
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File a 2021 tax return – Even if you had no income.
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Use the Recovery Rebate Credit – This is the official way to claim missing stimulus money.
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Submit to the IRS – You can file electronically or by mail.
You can find official IRS instructions here: IRS Recovery Rebate Credit.
Why Some People Missed the Payment
Many eligible Americans never got their stimulus because they:
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Didn’t file taxes due to low or no income.
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Changed addresses or bank accounts.
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Had life changes like a new baby in 2021 (meaning more money was owed).
If this sounds like you, the IRS may still have money with your name on it.
State-by-State Impact
While the stimulus was a federal payment, its impact varied by state. In high-cost cities like Los Angeles and New York City, the $1,400 was often just enough to cover rent for a month. In places like Dallas, Phoenix, or Charlotte, it helped families catch up on bills or buy essentials.
In rural areas of states like Montana or Iowa, many people reported the payment was a much-needed lifeline during pandemic recovery.
Watch Out for Scams
Unfortunately, stimulus-related scams are still circulating. Remember:
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The IRS will never call, text, or email asking for your personal information to “release” your stimulus.
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Only file through legitimate IRS channels or trusted tax professionals.
Why You Should Act Now
While April 2025 seems far away, it’s better to claim your 2021 stimulus sooner rather than later. The IRS can take weeks – or even months – to process older returns. The sooner you file, the sooner you get paid.
FAQs
1. How much can I get if I claim the 2021 stimulus now?
You can receive up to $1,400 per eligible person in your household.
2. Do I need to pay taxes on the stimulus?
No, stimulus payments are not taxable income.
3. Can I claim it if I’m on Social Security or disability?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements.
4. What if I had a baby in 2021?
You can get an additional $1,400 for your child if you claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
5. Can I still claim it if I moved or changed banks?
Yes, but you must file a 2021 tax return so the IRS knows where to send your payment.
Bottom line:
If you missed your 2021 stimulus payment, there’s still time to claim it—but you have to act. Whether you live in Miami, Seattle, or Austin, this could mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars back in your pocket. File your 2021 tax return, claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, and get what’s rightfully yours.