At the end of 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) identified about one million taxpayers eligible for a special refund of up to $1,400. This refund was for those who had not claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return, which was part of the Covid-19 stimulus payments.
Automatic Refund
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel stated that eligible taxpayers did not need to take any action. The IRS automatically issued refunds through:
- Direct deposit to the bank account listed on the 2023 tax return
- Paper checks mailed to the address on file with the IRS
These automatic payments ensured that eligible individuals received their refund without needing to file an amended tax return.
Refund
Taxpayers who did not file a 2021 tax return may still be eligible. The IRS has reminded taxpayers that they must file their return to claim the credit before the April 15, 2025 deadline.
Steps to Claim
- File a 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025, even if you had little or no income.
- Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing.
- Check your IRS online account to confirm past Economic Impact Payments.
- Use IRS FAQs on the Recovery Rebate Credit to determine eligibility.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, visit the IRS website or consult a tax professional for assistance.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,400 refund?
Taxpayers who didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return.
Do I need to file an amended return to get the refund?
No, the IRS issued automatic payments for eligible taxpayers.
What is the deadline to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit?
April 15, 2025, is the final deadline to file and claim the credit.
How do I check if I received the payment?
Log into your IRS online account to check Economic Impact Payment history.
Can I still get the refund if I didn’t file a 2021 tax return?
Yes, but you must file a 2021 tax return before the deadline to claim it.
