The IRS is issuing $1,430 stimulus checks to nearly one million Americans in 2025. These payments are designed to help individuals who missed out on the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) during 2021. If you think you might qualify or just want to make sure you’re not missing money that’s owed to you, this guide walks you through exactly what to do.
This isn’t a new stimulus plan—it’s the IRS correcting missed payments from the COVID-19 pandemic era. Many eligible taxpayers didn’t receive their full amount because of filing errors or incomplete information. Thankfully, the IRS is now making it right.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,400 (average $1,430 with tax adjustments) |
| Eligibility | Missed 2021 EIP, filed 2021 return without claiming Recovery Rebate |
| Income Threshold | $75,000 (single), $150,000 (joint), $112,500 (head of household) |
| Deadline to File | May 15, 2025 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or paper check |
| Tracking Tool | Get My Payment tool on IRS.gov |
If you’re eligible, there’s no need to apply again. The IRS will send your payment automatically based on the information in your 2021 return.
Why Now
Why is this happening in 2025? It’s all part of the IRS’s effort to make sure no one misses out on the pandemic relief they were promised. The $1,430 checks are coming from unclaimed Recovery Rebate Credits tied to the 2021 tax year.
When taxpayers didn’t properly claim these credits—or skipped filing altogether—they were left off the original distribution list. The IRS reviewed millions of returns and discovered a large group of people who were eligible but missed out. That’s where these new payments come in.
Eligibility
To get the payment, you must meet these criteria:
1. You Didn’t Get the Full 2021 Stimulus
If you were eligible for the third Economic Impact Payment but never received it or received less than you should have, you qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
2. You Filed a 2021 Tax Return
The IRS is only issuing payments to people who have a 2021 return on file. If you forgot to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit or entered $0 by mistake, the IRS is correcting that now.
3. You Meet the Income Requirements
| Filing Status | Full Payment Below | Phases Out At |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Joint | $150,000 | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
If your income is below these thresholds, you qualify for the full amount. Higher earners may receive a reduced payment or nothing.
4. You Have a Valid SSN
You must have had a valid Social Security number in 2021 and not have been claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
How Much
The maximum is $1,400 per eligible person. So your total payment will depend on your household:
- One adult with no dependents: $1,400
- Married couple with no dependents: $2,800
- Couple with two kids: $5,600
- Parent with a new child in 2021: additional $1,400 for the baby
That’s why the average payout is $1,430—many people qualify for more than one payment.
How to Track
The IRS has made it easy to follow your payment status:
Use the Get My Payment Tool
- Go to IRS.gov
- Click “Get My Payment”
- Enter your:
- Social Security Number
- Date of Birth
- Street Address
- ZIP Code
- Review your payment details:
- Amount
- Method (direct deposit or paper check)
- Date of issue
If you recently changed your bank info, the IRS will mail a paper check to your most recent address on file.
Didn’t File
If you never filed a 2021 tax return, you still have time—but the clock is ticking. The deadline is May 15, 2025. After that, you can no longer claim your payment.
Here’s how to file:
- IRS Free File: If your income was under $73,000, use this tool to file at no cost
- Local VITA Sites: Free in-person help available nationwide
- Tax Pros: Use the IRS directory to find a certified tax preparer near you
Smart Uses
This payment isn’t just a bonus—it can be a game-changer if used wisely.
Here’s how others are using theirs:
- Paying off medical bills or rent
- Catching up on credit card payments
- Starting an emergency fund
- Paying for job training or college courses
- Buying necessities like groceries or utilities
Real Example
A single mom with two children earning $50,000 forgot to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. The IRS just sent her $4,200—enough to cover back rent and pay for school supplies.
This is money you already earned—it’s not a new stimulus, and it’s not a loan. If you qualified in 2021 but didn’t get your full payment, now is your second chance. Check your IRS records, file if you haven’t, and track your payment.
Don’t leave your $1,430 on the table.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $1,430 check?
Anyone eligible for the 2021 EIP but didn’t receive or claim it.
How do I check my payment status?
Use the IRS Get My Payment tool on IRS.gov.
What if I didn’t file in 2021?
File your return by May 15, 2025 to claim your credit.
Will I get the full $1,430?
You may get more or less depending on your household size.
Do I need to apply again?
No, if your 2021 return is filed, the IRS will send your payment.
