Many people in the United States received money from the government during the COVID-19 pandemic to help them during tough times. This money was called a stimulus check, and one of the biggest payments was $1,400 per person. But here’s the thing — not everyone got their money. And now, there’s a final deadline to claim it. If you miss it, you lose it forever.
Let’s break down what this all means and what you need to do to claim your check before it’s too late.
What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check?
The $1,400 check was part of the COVID-19 relief plan passed by the U.S. government to support people financially during the pandemic. The government sent out several payments directly to Americans who qualified based on income and other factors.
The third stimulus payment – the one worth $1,400 – was sent out in 2021.
Who Needs to Claim It?
Some people didn’t get the payment back then. This happened mostly because:
- They didn’t file their 2021 taxes, even though they qualified.
- They didn’t know they had to file a return to claim the money.
- They weren’t required to pay taxes due to low income, so they didn’t file, but still could’ve received the payment.
If this sounds like you or someone you know, you can still get that $1,400, but only if you act fast.
The Final Deadline: April 15, 2025
Here’s the important part — you must file your 2021 federal tax return by April 15, 2025. That’s the final deadline to claim the payment. If you don’t do it by then, you won’t get the money.
No extensions. No second chances. After that date, the payment goes back to the U.S. Treasury.
What You Need to File Your 2021 Taxes
To file your 2021 taxes now (even in 2025), here’s what you’ll need:
- W-2 form from your job in 2021
- Any 1099 forms if you were self-employed or had other income
- Personal identification details like your Social Security Number
- Banking info (if you want the money direct deposited)
You can file online or through a tax professional. Some people may even qualify to use free tax filing services.
How You’ll Get Your Money
Once you file your 2021 return:
- The IRS will review it.
- If you’re eligible, they’ll send you the $1,400 as a paper check or direct deposit.
- If you already filed your 2024 return with banking info, they may use the same account.
Why Some People Still Haven’t Claimed It
Many Americans who qualify still haven’t claimed the money because:
- They didn’t know they needed to file 2021 taxes.
- They thought it was too late.
- They assumed the government would send it automatically.
This article is here to tell you: you still have time. But not much.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t file by April 15, 2025, you lose the $1,400 completely. The money doesn’t sit in an account waiting for you. It goes back to the U.S. government, and there’s no way to get it afterward.
Conclusion
The government gave out $1,400 checks to help people during the pandemic. But if you didn’t get yours, you have one last shot to claim it — and the clock is ticking. Make sure to file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025. It doesn’t matter if you didn’t owe any taxes — filing the return is the only way to get that money. It’s your money — don’t leave it behind. The process is simple, and help is available if you need it. Don’t miss this opportunity to get what’s yours!
