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IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility 2025: Who Still Qualifies for $1,400 Payments?

  • Sarah Whitfield
  • Sep 9
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 10

Updated September 10, 2025

The IRS is still sending out stimulus checks in 2025 — but these aren’t new COVID relief payments. Instead, they are part of the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, also known as the third round of Economic Impact Payments. Millions of Americans either missed claiming them or were eligible but didn’t file their 2021 tax returns. Now, the IRS is ensuring those taxpayers get what they are owed.

Here’s everything you need to know about IRS stimulus checks eligibility, payment status, and how to claim yours before it’s too late. IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility 2025


IRS headquarters building in Washington D.C. with American flag – IRS stimulus checks 2025

What Are These IRS Stimulus Checks?

These checks are not a brand-new stimulus program in 2025. Instead, they are catch-up payments for people who were entitled to the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit but didn’t receive it. The credit is worth up to $1,400 per eligible person, including dependents.

The IRS began issuing automatic payments in late 2024 and early 2025 to about 1 million taxpayers who filed but didn’t claim the credit.


Who Is Eligible for IRS Stimulus Checks in 2025?

Eligibility for these payments is based on 2021 tax return information.

You may qualify if:

  • You did not receive the third stimulus check (Economic Impact Payment) in 2021.

  • You were eligible based on income but did not file your 2021 return.

  • You filed your 2021 taxes but missed claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit.

  • Your income met IRS thresholds in 2021:

    • Single filers with Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) up to $75,000.

    • Married couples filing jointly with AGI up to $150,000.

    • Head of household with AGI up to $112,500.

If your income was above these thresholds, the payment phased out gradually.


Key Deadlines to Claim Your Payment

  • Automatic payments were sent from December 2024 to January 2025.

  • If you have not received your payment, you can still file your 2021 tax return.

  • The deadline to claim is April 15, 2025.


How to Check Your IRS Stimulus Payment Status

You can check the status of your payment through the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool or by signing into your IRS Online Account.

If the status shows “still processing”, it may mean the IRS is reviewing your eligibility.


Common Issues and Delays

Many taxpayers are asking: “Why is my refund delayed?” or “Why hasn’t my stimulus check arrived?”

Here are common reasons:

  • IRS is verifying identity or correcting errors.

  • Your 2021 return was filed late.

  • Your refund was offset due to debts (child support, federal loans, etc.).

  • Bank details or mailing address errors.


Avoid Scams

The IRS warns taxpayers to beware of scams. The agency will not call, email, or text you about claiming your stimulus check. Always use the official IRS.gov website to track payments.


FAQs: IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility

1. Are there new stimulus checks in 2025?

No. These are leftover payments from the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.


2. How much is the IRS stimulus check?

Up to $1,400 per eligible person, plus dependents.


3. Who qualifies for the stimulus check in 2025?

Taxpayers who were eligible in 2021 but didn’t receive or claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.


4. What is the income limit for stimulus eligibility?

$75,000 for singles, $150,000 for couples, $112,500 for heads of household.


5. How do I claim if I didn’t file in 2021?

File your 2021 return before April 15, 2025.


6. When will I get my payment?

Automatic payments were issued in late 2024–early 2025. Late filers will receive theirs after processing.


7. What if the IRS says “still processing”?

It means your return or claim is under review.


8. Can I still get my check after April 15, 2025?

No. The deadline is final.


9. What if I changed banks or addresses?

Update your information with the IRS. Paper checks may be issued.


10. Will this affect my 2025 tax refund?

No, this is a separate credit.


Final Takeaway

If you missed out on the third stimulus check in 2021, there’s still a chance to claim it. The IRS stimulus checks eligibility is tied to your 2021 tax return. Millions are still owed up to $1,400 per person, but time is running out. To get your payment, make sure you file your 2021 return by April 15, 2025.

For official updates, visit the IRS website: irs.gov.

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