The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has confirmed that $1,400 stimulus checks are still available to eligible Americans under the Recovery Rebate Credit – but time is running out.
These payments are part of the third-round stimulus distributed through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, and July 15, 2025, marks the final deadline to claim them.
According to the IRS, nearly 1 million people may still qualify for this last-chance payment, many of whom missed out due to filing errors, life changes, or lack of awareness.
Why Some People Never Received the Full $1,400 Stimulus
Although the majority received their checks in 2021, many missed out due to:
- Non-filers who didn’t file a tax return due to low/no income
- Banking issues, such as closed or changed accounts
- Life events like marriage, birth of a child, divorce, or turning 18
- IRS processing errors or outdated personal information
If you fall into one of these groups, you may still be entitled to the full $1,400 or a partial amount.
Eligibility Criteria for the Recovery Rebate Credit
To qualify for the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit, you must meet the following criteria based on your 2021 tax return:
| Filing Status | Income for Full Payment | Phase-Out Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single | Under $75,000 | Up to $80,000 |
| Head of Household | Under $112,500 | Up to $120,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Under $150,000 | Up to $160,000 |
Additional requirements:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Must have a valid Social Security number
- Cannot be claimed as a dependent by someone else
How to File and Claim Your $1,400 Check
You must file a 2021 federal tax return to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit—even if you had no income that year. Here’s how:
- File Form 1040 for the 2021 tax year
- Locate the Recovery Rebate Credit section
- Enter any previous stimulus received
- IRS will calculate any remaining amount owed to you
Deadline:
⏰ July 15, 2025
Missing this deadline means you permanently forfeit the right to this stimulus.
Payment Methods and Processing Times
Once your return is submitted and processed, the IRS will issue the payment through:
| Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | 3–4 weeks (faster) |
| Paper Check | 6–8 weeks (slower) |
Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure option. Paper filers or those without bank info may experience longer delays.
Warnings and Common Mistakes
- File only for 2021: Returns for other years won’t qualify.
- Complete the credit section: Skipping it means no payment.
- Avoid scams: The IRS never calls or texts to request payment or personal info.
Always check the official IRS website or speak with a tax professional for accurate guidance.
The $1,400 stimulus checks available in July 2025 are the final opportunity for many to receive their missed payments from the third round of COVID relief.
If you believe you’re eligible, act now by filing your 2021 tax return before July 15. This Recovery Rebate Credit could offer critical financial relief—but only if claimed in time.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,400 stimulus check in July 2025?
Anyone who met income and residency requirements in 2021 but didn’t receive the full third-round payment.
Is the payment automatic?
No. You must file a 2021 federal tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Can I still get the check if I had no income in 2021?
Yes. Even zero-income individuals qualify as long as they file the required tax return.