Claim 2021 IRS Stimulus Last Call to Check — Deadline is April 15
2 min read
Claim 2021 IRS Stimulus | Haven’t received your 2021 IRS stimulus check? You still have time to claim it, but not much. The deadline to file is April 15, and it’s your last chance to claim up to $1,400 through the Recovery Rebate Credit. Many eligible taxpayers have yet to claim this benefit — don’t miss out on your refund.
You Might Still Qualify for Up to $1,400 | IRS Stimulus Refund
The IRS estimates that more than 1.1 million people may have missed out on the 2021 stimulus payment. This includes those who didn’t file a return that year. Filing now gives you a chance to receive what you’re owed — even if you don’t owe any taxes.
Robert Nassau, law professor and director of Syracuse University’s Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic, shared a clear warning:
“If you didn’t get the stimulus, you’re running out of time.”
Why the April 15 Deadline Matters : Stimulus Check Deadline
There’s a three-year window to claim refunds from any tax year. That means your 2021 return must be filed by April 15, 2025, or you forfeit the chance to claim your stimulus check. You’ll also lose out on other potential refunds, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
If you’re mailing your return, choose certified mail for proof of filing. It helps avoid disputes with the IRS in case your return arrives late.
How to Check If You Already Received the Payment
Create an IRS online account to review your tax records. Under the “Records and Status” section, you’ll find whether your 2021 return was filed and if a stimulus check was issued.
Tommy Lucas, certified financial planner and enrolled agent, says this is the most accurate method:
“Your IRS account shows whether you filed your 2021 return and if a stimulus check was issued.”
IRS Will Send Automatic Payments—But Only If You File
In December, the IRS announced automatic payments of up to $1,400 for those who didn’t claim the credit. These payments are based on filed 2021 returns. If you don’t file, you won’t qualify.
This is a limited opportunity, and missing it means missing the money.

Over $1 Billion in Unclaimed Refunds Remain
As of March, the IRS reported more than $1 billion in unclaimed tax refunds from 2021. The median refund is around $781 — and that doesn’t include the Recovery Rebate Credit. This money can help individuals and families, especially those in low-income brackets or affected by the pandemic. | Claim 2021 IRS Stimulus
Steps You Can Take Today
Don’t forget to claim other refundable credits
File your 2021 return now (free filing options are available)
Check your stimulus status using the IRS online portal
Use certified mail if sending a paper return
READ FULL ARTICLES IRS Online Account Access Free Tax Filing Resources
EXPLORE FURTHER: Philippines F-16 Purchase: US Approves $5.58-B