Time is running out to claim federal stimulus checks: directions on how to claim from the IRS

During the coronavirus pandemic, the US government approved sending three economic impact payments, known as stimulus checks. Three checks were sent in 2020 and 2021, and time is running out to claim them. The first check sent in the spring of 2020 was worth $1,200; the second sent in December 2020 and January 2021 was worth $600; and the third and final check sent in spring 2021 was worth $1,400.

Although most people eligible for stimulus checks have already received them, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) urges those who may be entitled to them and have not received them to submit Refund Recovery Credit before it’s too late.

The IRS shares the deadline to claim stimulus checks

According to the IRS, to claim stimulus checks through the Recovery Rebate Credit, taxpayers must first file a 2020 tax return for the first set. This includes filers who did not have an income during that tax year or who typically are not required to submit a return.

The deadline to file a tax return and claim the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit is May 17, 2024. To receive the $1,200 check that was approved by Congress in 2021, filers have until 15 April 2025.

Who is eligible to receive the Recovery Rebate Credit?

Typically, to claim the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit, a person must:

You can use the IRS’ Free File tool to file your return for free if your income was under $73,000 in 2020. If you filed a return in 2020 but did not receive the payment, the IRS advises that one “file an amended return to claim the credit.” More information on how to do so can be found on the tax authority’s website.