Time is running out for millions of Americans to claim up to $1,500 in federal stimulus money before it vanishes forever. The IRS has set a final deadline of April 15, 2025, for taxpayers to file a 2021 tax return and claim any remaining funds from the third round of Economic Impact Payments. After that, any unclaimed money will be transferred to the U.S. Treasury—permanently lost to those who miss out.
How Much Time Do You Have to Claim Your 2021 Stimulus Payment?
The IRS allows a three-year window for taxpayers to file and claim refunds, including refundable tax credits and stimulus payments. Since the third round of stimulus checks was issued based on 2021 tax returns, the cutoff date is firm—April 15, 2025. This deadline applies not only to stimulus payments but also to any other refund you might be owed from that tax year, including refundable tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit (CTC).
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
The consequences of missing the deadline are severe: you forfeit the money entirely. If you don’t submit your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, you won’t be able to claim the $1,500 stimulus or any other refund you were entitled to from that year.
According to the IRS, once the deadline passes, unclaimed refunds—including stimulus payments claimed through the Recovery Rebate Credit—become the property of the U.S. Treasury.
Who’s at Risk of Missing Out?
The groups most at risk of losing out include:
- Lower-income individuals who weren’t required to file taxes in 2021 and may not realize they need to file to claim their stimulus.
- People who never received their full payment and assumed they got the correct amount.
- Those who mistakenly believed they were ineligible.
If you missed part or all of your stimulus payment, the only way to claim it is by filing a 2021 tax return and requesting the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Is There Any Way to Claim It After the Deadline?
Once April 15, 2025, passes, the IRS will no longer issue refunds for the 2021 tax year. No extensions or grace periods apply, except in rare cases:
- Military personnel serving in combat zones may qualify for extra time.
- Individuals affected by IRS processing errors may have additional options.
- Legislative changes could extend the deadline (though none are currently in place).
What Should You Do Right Now?
If you think you may be eligible, don’t wait! Follow these steps to file your 2021 tax return before the deadline:
- Use IRS Free File to submit electronically.
- Mail a paper return if preferred—but ensure it’s postmarked by April 15.
- Seek assistance from a tax professional if you’re unsure about your eligibility.
Are You Owed More Than Just a Stimulus Payment?
Many taxpayers could be missing out on more than just the $1,500 stimulus check. Refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit (CTC) can provide thousands of extra dollars—but only if you file your 2021 tax return in time. Failing to act means forfeiting all potential refunds.
How to Avoid Missing Future Tax Deadlines
To prevent similar situations in the future:
- Set reminders before each tax deadline.
- Use the IRS Free File tool or consult a tax preparer.
- Check your eligibility annually for credits like the EITC or the CTC.
- Keep records of all IRS correspondence and payments.
FAQs
1. How much money can I claim?
Eligible taxpayers can receive up to $1,500 from the third stimulus check, plus any additional tax refunds they were owed in 2021.
2. When is the deadline to file for the stimulus payment?
The absolute deadline to file a 2021 tax return and claim your stimulus money is April 15, 2025.
3. What if I didn’t file taxes in 2021?
If you didn’t file because you weren’t required to, you should still file a 2021 tax return to claim your stimulus payment and any other refundable credits.
4. Can I still get my refund after the deadline?
No. Once the April 15, 2025 deadline passes, any unclaimed refunds will be turned over to the U.S. Treasury and will no longer be available.
5. How can I check if I received my full stimulus payment?
Visit IRS.gov and use the Get My Payment tool or check your 2021 IRS account transcript to see if you were paid the full amount.
6. Can I still get my refund if I’m in the military?
Yes. Military personnel serving in combat zones may be eligible for a deadline extension. Contact the IRS for details.
Final Reminder
With the April 15, 2025, deadline fast approaching, now is the time to act. If you think you’re eligible for $1,500 or more in federal stimulus money, file your 2021 tax return as soon as possible. This is your last chance to claim what may be one of the final benefits from the government’s COVID-19 relief programs—don’t let it slip away!