If you’ve heard about a $1,390 stimulus payment coming in 2025, you’re probably wondering if it’s legit—or if it’s too good to be true. Well, here’s the deal: it’s not a brand-new check from the government, but it is very real money that’s still up for grabs. It’s actually a leftover benefit from the third round of Economic Impact Payments (aka stimulus checks) from 2021. If you missed out or didn’t get the full amount, this is your second chance to claim it. Let’s break it all down.
Background
This payment isn’t a fresh 2025 stimulus. It’s a Recovery Rebate Credit connected to the 2021 tax year. The IRS launched this credit for people who didn’t get all or part of their third COVID-era stimulus check. It’s worth up to $1,400 per person—but most people eligible are seeing around $1,390 due to various tax factors.
The reason this is popping up now in 2025 is because the IRS gives you three years to claim refunds from previous tax years. That means you’ve got until May 15, 2025 to file your 2021 taxes if you want this money.
Eligibility
Not sure if you qualify? Here’s a quick way to find out.
You’re eligible if:
- You didn’t get the full 2021 stimulus check
- You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021
- You weren’t claimed as someone else’s dependent
- Your income was:
- $75,000 or less for single filers
- $112,500 or less for heads of household
- $150,000 or less for married couples
Did your income drop in 2021? Did you have a new baby? Maybe you just didn’t file that year. These are all good reasons to double-check your eligibility.
Special Cases
You might qualify if:
- You had a baby or new dependent in 2021
- You were on disability or unemployment
- You usually don’t file taxes (like retirees or students)
- You were dealing with financial hardship
Even if you didn’t think this applied to you back then, it’s worth a fresh look.
Process
Here’s how to go about claiming your money. It’s simpler than it sounds.
Step 1: Check your eligibility using the IRS website or a tax pro.
Step 2: File your 2021 federal tax return using Form 1040. You must include the Recovery Rebate Credit worksheet.
Step 3: Make sure to do it before May 15, 2025. That’s your deadline.
Step 4: File electronically for faster processing. Use trusted tools like IRS Free File, TurboTax, or H&R Block.
Step 5: Respond to any follow-up letters from the IRS. Keep your documents organized just in case.
Example
Meet Sarah, a part-time nurse and single mom who made $30,000 in 2021. She didn’t file taxes that year because she thought she wasn’t required to. Fast forward to 2025—she learns she can still get her $1,390 by filing a late return.
With help from a free local tax service, Sarah files online. A few weeks later, she gets her refund. That money goes toward overdue bills and school supplies for her daughter.
There are thousands of people like Sarah. You might be one of them—or know someone who is.
Deadline
The magic date here is May 15, 2025. After that, the IRS closes the door. Any unclaimed money will go back to the U.S. Treasury. So, don’t wait around.
Tips
Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss out:
Step | Action |
---|---|
Confirm Eligibility | Use IRS tools or a tax expert |
File Electronically | Choose Free File, TurboTax, or similar |
Visit a Free Tax Center | Look into VITA or TCE if you need help |
Gather Documents | Include 2021 income and dependent info |
Watch for IRS Notices | Respond quickly to any follow-up letters |
And here’s a big one—don’t pay anyone upfront to help you claim this. Legit help is free.
If you’re eligible, you’ve got a real shot at putting up to $1,390 back into your pocket. The clock is ticking, but you’ve still got time. Whether you’re helping yourself or someone else, filing that 2021 return could be the smartest financial move you make this year.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,390 payment?
Anyone who missed the 2021 stimulus and meets income limits.
What is the deadline to claim it?
You must file your 2021 tax return by May 15, 2025.
Do I need to file taxes to get it?
Yes, you must file a 2021 federal tax return.
Can seniors and students apply?
Yes, even non-filers like retirees and students can qualify.
How much money can I get?
Most people receive up to $1,390, depending on eligibility.