$1,400 Stimulus Checks Coming In May 2025 – How To Claim Yours Before It’s Too Late
With rising prices continuing to burden American households in 2025, the $1,400 stimulus checks offer much-needed relief—but these payments aren’t new. Instead, they are unclaimed funds from the third round of stimulus issued in 2021.
If you didn’t receive your full amount or missed the payment entirely, you may still be eligible to claim your check by filing a 2021 tax return in May 2025.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how to file, and when to expect your payment.
Why Are $1,400 Stimulus Checks Being Sent in 2025?
The current round of payments stems from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which provided up to $1,400 per eligible individual.
While most payments were sent in 2021, over 900,000 Americans never received theirs—due to filing errors, missed deadlines, or lack of awareness.
Now, the IRS is allowing a final window in May 2025 for eligible people to file their 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit—a refundable tax credit that delivers the missed stimulus funds.
Who Is Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Check in May 2025?
To qualify, individuals must meet the original 2021 eligibility criteria:
Income Limits
| Filing Status | Full Payment If AGI ≤ | Phase-Out Ends At |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
Other Requirements
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Must have a valid Social Security number
- Cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
If you received a partial payment in 2021, you may still qualify for the remaining balance.
How to Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check in May 2025
Follow these steps to secure your payment:
- File a 2021 Tax Return
Even if you had no income, filing is necessary. - Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit Section on Form 1040
This ensures the IRS evaluates your eligibility and calculates any owed payment. - File Electronically
For the fastest refund, file online and include your direct deposit information. - Avoid Errors
Double-check your Social Security number, income details, and bank info.
When Will Payments Be Sent?
Most payments are processed 4 to 6 weeks after the IRS receives and approves your return.
Payment Methods
| Payment Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Fastest method; sent to bank account |
| Paper Check | Mailed to your latest address |
If you file by mid-May, your payment could arrive by late June 2025.
Important Reminders & Common Mistakes
Avoid these mistakes to ensure your check isn’t delayed:
- Filing for the wrong tax year (must be 2021).
- Skipping the Rebate Credit section on the tax form.
- Incorrect Social Security numbers.
- Outdated contact or bank information.
Even if you were a retiree, a student, or a non-filer with zero income, you are still eligible if you meet the criteria and file correctly.
Watch Out for Scams
Fraudsters often use stimulus payments to target unsuspecting individuals. Protect yourself:
- The IRS will never call or email asking for personal information.
- Only use www.irs.gov to file or check your status.
- Report suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov.
Key Facts: $1,400 Stimulus Check Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
| Eligibility | Based on 2021 AGI, citizenship, and status |
| Claim Method | File 2021 tax return with IRS |
| Payment Type | Recovery Rebate Credit (not new aid) |
| Deadline | Final filing window open in May 2025 |
| Payment Timing | 4–6 weeks after IRS approval |
The $1,400 stimulus checks arriving in May 2025 are a final opportunity to claim what you may have missed from the third round of COVID relief.
If you think you qualify, act fast—file your 2021 tax return now, complete the Recovery Rebate Credit, and expect your check in the coming weeks. In times of economic uncertainty, this overdue payment can make a significant difference.
FAQs
Can I still get the $1,400 stimulus check if I had no income in 2021?
Yes. Even if your income was zero, filing a 2021 tax return makes you eligible to claim the full amount.
What if I already received a partial payment in 2021?
You can claim the remaining balance by filing your 2021 return and completing the Recovery Rebate Credit section.
How do I know if the IRS received my return?
You can check your status using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool at www.irs.gov for updates after filing.