Taxpayer Stimulus check were a hot topic during the pandemic. For most people, these checks have already come and gone, providing much-needed relief during a tough time. But there’s a twist: the IRS is sending out additional payments to 1 million taxpayers. These checks might feel like a surprise, and you might be wondering if you’re eligible for one.
So, what’s going on with these taxpayer stimulus checks, and why are some people getting them now, years after the original payments were issued? Let’s break it down.
Why Are Some Taxpayers Receiving Stimulus Checks Now?
For most taxpayers, the stimulus checks came and went between 2020 and 2021. These payments were part of the federal government’s efforts to provide economic relief during the pandemic. However, some individuals failed to claim all the stimulus money they were entitled to—specifically the recovery rebate credit on their 2021 tax returns. This oversight has led the IRS to send out additional payments to those who missed out.
The recovery rebate credit was available to taxpayers who didn’t receive the full amount of their stimulus payments, or who weren’t eligible for them at the time but later became eligible due to changes in their income. A number of taxpayers failed to claim this credit when filing their 2021 tax returns, either by leaving the relevant line blank or entering $0 when they were, in fact, eligible for more money.
Now, after reviewing internal data, the IRS has identified about 1 million taxpayers who missed out on the recovery rebate credit and are now eligible for a special payment. These payments are going out automatically—no need to file an amended return. So, if you’re one of the 1 million, keep an eye on your mailbox or check your bank account; the money could be coming soon.
How Much Could You Get From Your Taxpayer Stimulus Check?
The amount of the taxpayer stimulus check you might receive depends on your individual situation. If you missed out on the recovery rebate credit in 2021, the IRS is sending out payments that reflect the amount you should have received. The recovery rebate credit provided up to $1,400 per person for eligible individuals, and up to $2,800 for married couples filing jointly. For families with dependents, there was an additional $1,400 per qualifying dependent.
The amount could vary, but the IRS has estimated that about $2.4 billion will be distributed as part of this special payment rollout. With 1 million taxpayers receiving checks, that averages out to about $2,400 per person, though it could be higher or lower based on the number of dependents claimed on the return.
When Will Your Taxpayer Stimulus Check Arrive?
The IRS started sending out these special payments in December 2024, and most taxpayers can expect to see their checks by the end of January 2025. The payments will either be deposited directly into your bank account or mailed as paper checks, depending on the information the IRS has on file for you.
It’s important to keep an eye on your bank account or mailbox, as some people may already have received their stimulus check without realizing it. If the IRS doesn’t have an up-to-date bank account on file, they’ll mail the check to the address listed on your 2023 tax return.
For those who’ve moved or closed a bank account since they filed their 2021 return, the payment could be returned to the IRS and reissued to the correct address or account.
Who Qualifies for This Special Stimulus Payment?
Not everyone will receive a taxpayer stimulus check. The people who are eligible for this special payment are those who filed a 2021 tax return but didn’t claim the recovery rebate credit, even though they were qualified to receive it.
Several factors could make you eligible, including:
- You had a significant drop in income in 2021 compared to previous years, making you eligible for the stimulus money.
- You weren’t eligible for the stimulus payments in 2020 or 2021 but became eligible based on your 2021 income.
- You might have had a new child, adopted a child, or had a child placed in your foster care in 2021, which could have qualified you for additional stimulus money.
How Will the IRS Know You’re Eligible?
The IRS is using its internal data to identify taxpayers who missed claiming the recovery rebate credit and who are eligible for the additional payment. If you are one of these taxpayers, you don’t need to take any action. The IRS will automatically send you the money, whether through direct deposit or a paper check, depending on what information they have for you.
If you haven’t received a taxpayer stimulus check yet and believe you might be eligible, it’s still possible to file a 2021 tax return to claim the recovery rebate credit. But keep in mind that the deadline to file a 2021 return is April 15, 2025.
Why Is the IRS Sending Stimulus Money Now?
You may be wondering why the IRS is sending out these payments now, years after the original rounds of stimulus checks were issued. The IRS took this unusual step after reviewing its data and realizing that 1 million taxpayers were eligible for the recovery rebate credit but hadn’t claimed it.
As IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel explained, the agency is committed to making sure eligible taxpayers get the relief they are entitled to. These payments are part of a broader effort to “go the extra mile for taxpayers,” ensuring that people don’t miss out on money they should have received in the past.
What If You Didn’t File a 2021 Tax Return?
If you didn’t file a 2021 tax return and believe you are eligible for the recovery rebate credit, you still have time to file a return and claim the credit. However, you must do so by the April 15, 2025 deadline. After that, it will be too late to claim any money from the recovery rebate credit, including the taxpayer stimulus check.
If you’re not sure whether you qualify, it might be helpful to speak with a tax professional to determine your eligibility.
Final Thoughts on the Taxpayer Stimulus Check
In conclusion, while most of the stimulus payments from the pandemic era have already been sent, the IRS is still issuing additional taxpayer stimulus checks to those who missed out on claiming the recovery rebate credit in 2021. This unexpected payment could be a welcome relief for many, so keep an eye on your bank account or mailbox. If you didn’t receive the full amount you were entitled to, the IRS has made sure you won’t have to go through the hassle of filing an amended return to get your money.
If you think you might qualify, don’t wait—check your eligibility and make sure you get what’s rightfully yours.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as financial or tax advice. Eligibility for the taxpayer stimulus check and other IRS-related benefits is subject to specific criteria and individual circumstances. We recommend consulting with a tax professional or the IRS directly for guidance tailored to your situation. The IRS is solely responsible for the distribution of funds, and payments may vary depending on a variety of factors, including income levels, dependents, and prior claims. Please verify any updates or changes through official IRS channels.
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