If you missed out on the $1,400 federal stimulus payment from 2021, today—April 15, 2025—is your final chance to claim it. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has confirmed that there will be no more extensions. This payment, called the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, was part of the third round of COVID-19 financial relief issued under laws like the CARES Act.
This article explains how the credit works, who can still get it, what’s happening in New York with possible state payments, and what action you need to take today before the deadline passes.
What Was the $1,400 Federal Stimulus?
The Recovery Rebate Credit was the final stimulus issued between 2020 and 2021. While most Americans received this money automatically, some people never got it—often due to income changes, not filing taxes, or IRS processing delays.
Who Qualified for the Full Amount?
To receive the full $1,400 payment:
- Single filers needed to have an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $75,000 or less
- The amount decreased for incomes above that and phased out completely at $80,000
- Married couples filing jointly could receive up to $2,800, with the phase-out ending at $160,000
If you did not receive the full amount in 2021 and meet these limits, you can still claim it by filing a 2021 tax return today.
Today Is the Final Deadline to File for 2021
The IRS has warned that April 15, 2025 is the last day to file a 2021 tax return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. After today, any unclaimed funds will go to the U.S. Treasury and will be lost forever.
Even if you had low or no income in 2021, you can still file and get this money. The IRS offers free tax prep help online and through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) for those earning under $64,000.
New York: Any New Stimulus Programs?
As of April 15, 2025, New York State has no active stimulus checks. However, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed a $3 billion Inflation Rebate plan, which could offer $300 to $500 payments based on marital status and income.
Key Details of the NY Proposal:
- Still not approved by the State Legislature
- If passed, payments might start in fall 2025
- 8.6 million people could benefit, including 3.6 million in New York City
- Priority would go to lower-middle-income households
- The final rules and payment dates are still undecided
The NYC Fair Housing Coalition has asked the government to provide clarity so residents can prepare documents if the plan is passed. For now, there is no way to apply or register for this rebate.
Why It Matters
According to the IRS, only 2% of eligible people still haven’t claimed their 2021 credit. That means many are at risk of missing out on free money—and once today’s deadline passes, it’s gone for good.
Economists say that while programs like New York’s proposal are helpful, they’re not a complete solution to financial struggles. Long-term support like job creation and rent assistance is still needed.
If you never received your $1,400 stimulus payment in 2021, today is your last chance to file a tax return and claim it. You don’t have to pay anything if you’re owed a refund, and the process is fairly simple. Visit the IRS Free File portal or ask for help through VITA centers. With $2.4 billion already distributed, don’t miss your share. Once the deadline passes, the money will be returned to the government, and you won’t get another opportunity.
