Millions of Americans still have a final opportunity to claim up to $1,390 in federal stimulus relief—but the clock is ticking. If you missed out on the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIP) issued in 2021, you may still be eligible through the IRS Recovery Rebate Credit. But to receive it, you must file your 2021 tax return by July 15, 2025.
Whether you never received the payment, received less than you qualified for, or had life changes in 2021 that affected eligibility, this guide breaks down how to claim your funds before the IRS deadline.
What Is the $1,390 Stimulus Credit?
The $1,390 stimulus payment is part of the third COVID-19 stimulus check authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. While the full check amount was up to $1,400 per eligible person, many people received slightly less due to income phase-outs or other IRS adjustments.
If you missed that round or were underpaid, you can still claim the missing portion by filing a 2021 federal tax return and completing the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC).
Deadline to file and claim: July 15, 2025
Who Is Eligible for the $1,390 Recovery Rebate?
To qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit and receive up to $1,390, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien for 2021
- Have a valid Social Security number valid for employment
- Not be claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer for 2021
- Meet income limits based on your 2021 Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
Income Thresholds for Full or Partial Stimulus
| Filing Status | Full Payment Below | Phases Out At |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
If your income exceeded the threshold, your payment was reduced and phased out entirely once the upper limit was reached.
Why You May Still Be Owed Money
There are several situations in which people may have missed out on the third stimulus payment:
- You didn’t file a 2021 tax return
- You were claimed as a dependent in 2020, but not in 2021
- You had a child in 2021 but didn’t receive the extra $1,400
- Your income dropped below the eligibility threshold in 2021
- The IRS did not have updated banking or address information
How to File for the Recovery Rebate Credit
To claim your missing payment:
1. File Your 2021 Tax Return
Use Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR for seniors. These forms contain Line 30, which is where you enter your Recovery Rebate Credit amount.
2. Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit Worksheet
Use the IRS-provided worksheet to calculate the exact amount you’re owed. This includes amounts for:
- Yourself
- Your spouse (if filing jointly)
- Eligible dependents
3. File Electronically (Recommended)
To avoid delays or errors, use IRS-approved tax software or IRS Free File (for incomes under $73,000). You can also work with a trusted CPA or VITA volunteer.
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4. Include Supporting Documentation
Helpful items include:
- IRS Letter 6475: Details how much you received from the third stimulus (if any)
- IRS Notice 1444-C: Sent with your EIP 3
- 2021 W-2s or 1099s: To confirm your income
How You’ll Get Paid
After your tax return is processed, you’ll receive your payment via:
- Direct deposit (if bank info is on file with IRS)
- Paper check (sent to your last known address)
- Mailed debit card (less common but used in some cases)
You can track your payment status using the IRS “Get My Payment” tool at IRS.gov.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your claim is processed quickly, avoid these common filing errors:
- Filing a return for the wrong year (must be 2021)
- Leaving Line 30 blank or incorrectly filled
- Assuming you’re ineligible without checking your 2021 income
- Forgetting to list new dependents born in 2021
- Missing the July 15, 2025 deadline altogether
Once the deadline passes, you’ll permanently lose your right to claim this payment.
Expert Advice on Filing Correctly
Tax experts offer these tips for a smoother process:
- File electronically for faster and more accurate results
- Use trusted tax software or the IRS Free File tool
- Seek help from VITA or a certified tax preparer
- Double-check Line 30 on your return
- Keep copies of all IRS letters and supporting documents
Case 1: Recently Independent
David, 23, was claimed by his parents in 2020 but not in 2021. He earns $25,000 and never received stimulus money. He files a 2021 return in July 2025 and claims $1,390.
Case 2: New Parents
Maria and Pedro earned $145,000 jointly in 2021 and had a baby in December 2021. They didn’t receive the third stimulus. By filing now, they claim:
- $1,390 for each parent
- $1,400 for their newborn
- Total: $4,180
Deadline Details: Don’t Miss It
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Maximum Payment | Up to $1,390 per person |
| Claim Method | File 2021 tax return |
| Deadline | July 15, 2025 |
| Tax Form Required | Form 1040 / 1040-SR |
| IRS Website | irs.gov |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed check |
After July 15, 2025, you can no longer claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. The opportunity will expire permanently.
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Final Thoughts: One Last Chance for COVID Relief
The $1,390 Recovery Rebate Credit could provide a significant financial boost—especially for those who missed out during a challenging year. Whether due to filing delays, life changes, or simple oversight, this is your final opportunity to claim what you’re entitled to.
With the IRS deadline just weeks away, there’s no time to delay. File your 2021 return, complete Line 30, and make sure you don’t leave money on the table.
