If you haven’t filed your 2021 taxes yet and are wondering whether you can still claim your stimulus check, you’re not alone. Many Americans missed out on stimulus payments (also called Economic Impact Payments) but still have a chance to claim them—even in 2025.
But how long do you have to file? And can you still get your money? Let’s break it all down.
Can You Still File 2021 Taxes in 2025?
Yes! You can still file your 2021 tax return in 2025, but there’s a deadline:
✅ The IRS gives you up to 3 years from the original filing deadline to claim a tax refund.
✅ Since the 2021 tax deadline was April 18, 2022, you must file by April 15, 2025, to claim your stimulus check or any refund from that tax year.
📌 Important: If you miss the April 15, 2025, deadline, you forfeit any refund or stimulus payment owed to you.
Can You Still Get Your 2021 Stimulus Check?
The third stimulus check ($1,400 per person) was part of the American Rescue Plan Act and was sent out in 2021. If you didn’t receive it, you may still be eligible to claim it by filing your 2021 taxes.
Who Can Claim the 2021 Stimulus Check in 2025?
You may still be eligible for the $1,400 stimulus payment if:
✔️ You never received the third stimulus check in 2021.
✔️ You received less than you were owed (based on income or dependent status changes).
✔️ Your income dropped in 2021, making you newly eligible.
✔️ You had a child in 2021 or added a dependent.
If you qualify, you can claim the stimulus check through the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on your 2021 tax return—even if you’re filing late.
📌 Note: If you already received the full $1,400 per person in 2021, you cannot claim it again.
How to Claim the Stimulus Check When Filing Late
If you’re filing your 2021 taxes in 2025, follow these steps to claim your missing stimulus money:
1️⃣ Download Form 1040 (2021 Version) – The 2021 tax forms are still available on the IRS website.
2️⃣ Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) Section – This is where you report any missing stimulus funds.
3️⃣ Mail Your Return – Since e-filing may not be available for older tax years, you might need to print and mail your return to the IRS.
4️⃣ Wait for Processing – Late tax returns may take longer to process, so expect delays in receiving your refund.
🔹 Need Help? Use the IRS Where’s My Refund tool or call the IRS helpline at 1-800-829-1040.
How Much Stimulus Money Could You Receive?
If you never received the third stimulus check, you may be eligible for:
💰 $1,400 per eligible individual
💰 $1,400 per dependent (including adult dependents)
Example: A family of four (two adults, two children) could receive $5,600 if they never got their 2021 stimulus.
📌 Income Limits: If your adjusted gross income (AGI) was over $75,000 (single) or $150,000 (married filing jointly), your stimulus amount phases out.
What Happens If You Owe Taxes?
If you owe back taxes, the IRS may apply your stimulus check toward your balance. However, the stimulus was not subject to garnishment for debts like student loans or child support.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t filed your 2021 taxes yet, you still have time—but only until April 15, 2025. If you missed your third stimulus check, filing a late tax return is your last chance to claim it.
🔹 Check if you’re eligible, file your 2021 tax return ASAP, and don’t miss out on your money!
FAQs
1. Is there a deadline to file 2021 taxes?
Yes, you must file by April 15, 2025, to claim any refund or stimulus money.
2. Can I still get my 2021 stimulus check in 2025?
Yes, if you qualify and haven’t received it, you can claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on your 2021 tax return.
3. How do I check if I already received my 2021 stimulus check?
Log into your IRS account or check your bank statements from 2021 for a deposit labeled “Economic Impact Payment.”
4. Can I e-file my 2021 tax return in 2025?
Probably not—older returns often must be paper-filed by mail.
5. What if I miss the April 2025 deadline?
If you don’t file by April 15, 2025, you lose any refund or stimulus money owed to you.