Missed Out on $1,400 IRS Stimulus Payment? You Could Still Get Paid—and Save on Utility Bills

At a time when the cost of living is climbing, especially with inflation driving up utility bills, it’s crucial to take advantage of every opportunity to reduce financial stress.

The IRS is working hard to ensure that eligible taxpayers get the help they need—so don’t let this stimulus payment pass you by.

Let’s be honest—tax season can feel like a headache. For many Americans, taxes are synonymous with stress and confusion.

But here’s something worth celebrating: if you filed your 2021 tax return but didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, you might still be eligible for a stimulus payment—and the IRS is working hard to make sure you get it.
 

What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?

The Recovery Rebate Credit is a refundable tax credit for eligible individuals who didn’t receive one or more of the Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), commonly known as stimulus payments.

These payments were issued by the government to help Americans navigate the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to IRS data, a significant number of taxpayers filed their 2021 tax return but missed out on claiming this valuable credit.

If that sounds like you, don’t worry—you may still be able to claim it, and the IRS has good news.
 

Automatic Payments for Eligible Taxpayers

In December, the IRS announced plans to issue automatic payments to eligible individuals who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns.

This is a great example of how the government is stepping in to make sure taxpayers don’t miss out on valuable relief funds.

Don't get scammed, be vigilant: IRS $1,400 Stimulus Payment Scam Alert: Beware of these Messages Amid Rising Inflation

 

Do You Need to Do Anything to Get Your Stimulus Payment?

Here’s the kicker: If you didn’t file a 2021 tax return, it’s not too late.

You could still be eligible to receive a stimulus payment—but only if you file your 2021 return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit by April 15, 2025. That’s right, there’s still time.

The best part? You don’t need to take any extra action to receive the payment if you're eligible.

According to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, the IRS is doing everything it can to get these payments to you without requiring you to go through the long process of filing an amended return.

More about Stimulus Payments this February 2025:

• Stimulus Payments in February 2025: What Money Might You Get?
• Stimulus Payments for Families in Select Parts of the U.S. in February 2025

 

The Bottom Line: Check Your Bank Account or Mailbox

So, if you’re wondering whether you missed out on any stimulus funds, take a moment to check your physical mail or review your bank account.

The IRS says most eligible taxpayers have already received their EIP or Recovery Rebate Credit, with a maximum payment of $1,400 per person.

If you haven’t seen it yet, you could be receiving it soon.

In these times of rising costs, particularly with utility bills and inflation impacting families across the nation, this extra relief could make a real difference in your monthly budget.

Why let money go unclaimed? If you’re eligible, it’s time to act.
 

A Helpful Reminder

Don’t miss out on what you’re entitled to. If you haven’t yet filed your 2021 return, get it done before April 2025 to claim that potential stimulus payment.

And if you’ve already filed but missed the Recovery Rebate Credit, remember that automatic payments could be headed your way, bringing much-needed relief.

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