Rumors are swirling about a $1,400 direct deposit from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) hitting bank accounts in April 2025, tied to the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC). This payment targets taxpayers who missed or underclaimed COVID-era stimulus checks. While the IRS announced automatic payments for some, the April 2025 deadline looms for others. Here’s the truth about eligibility, payment status, and how to claim it, all in simple English.
What’s the $1,400 Payment?
The IRS identified ~1 million taxpayers who filed 2021 tax returns but didn’t claim the RRC or entered $0 despite being eligible. These payments, up to $1,400 per person, aim to deliver ~$2.4 billion in unclaimed stimulus funds from the third round of COVID relief (March 2021). Automatic payments began in December 2024, sent via direct deposit to 2023 tax return bank details or by paper check to the address on file. Most should have arrived by late January 2025, but some sources suggest stragglers may land in April 2025 due to processing delays.
Are You Eligible?
- Automatic Payments: If you filed a 2021 return, left the RRC blank or at $0, and were eligible (income under $80,000 for singles, $160,000 for joint filers), you likely received or will receive the payment. No action is needed; check your bank or mailbox.
- Non-Filers: If you didn’t file a 2021 return but had low or no income (e.g., Social Security recipients), you can still claim the RRC by filing a 2021 return by April 15, 2025. Use IRS Free File or consult a tax professional.
- Scams Alert: The IRS won’t text or email for personal details. Verify eligibility via irs.gov or your IRS Online Account, and report suspicious messages to phishing@irs.gov.
Payment Status and Issues
- Received It?: Check your 2023-linked bank account or mail for a check and a separate IRS letter explaining the payment. Amounts vary based on income, dependents, and prior stimulus received.
- Not Received?: Log into your IRS Online Account to view Economic Impact Payment (EIP) records or call 1-800-829-1040. If you switched to a Direct Express card, payments may still go to the 2023 account or address unless updated.
- Deadline: Non-filers must file by April 15, 2025, or forfeit the credit. Refunds may be offset by debts like child support.
Next Steps
- Check Status: Use irs.gov or your IRS Online Account to confirm eligibility and payment details.
- File Now: If you haven’t filed 2021 taxes, submit a return via IRS Free File or a tax preparer before April 15, 2025.
- Stay Safe: Ignore unsolicited texts or emails claiming to be IRS; only trust official channels.
This is likely the final chance to claim the $1,400 stimulus, so act fast!
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 per person |
| Eligibility | 2021 filers (missed RRC) or non-filers |
| Deadline | April 15, 2025 (non-filers) |
| Delivery | Direct deposit or paper check |
| Total Funds | ~$2.4 billion for ~1 million taxpayers |
| Contact | irs.gov, 1-800-829-1040 |