If you’ve come across posts or heard people talking about a new $2,400 stimulus check in 2025, you’re not alone. It’s all over social media and spreading by word of mouth. But let’s clear it up—there’s no new $2,400 stimulus check being sent out this year. However, there is a way some people can still get up to $1,400 if they missed their third stimulus payment back in 2021. It’s all thanks to something called the Recovery Rebate Credit—and yes, you can still claim it, but only for a limited time.

What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?

The Recovery Rebate Credit is part of the American Rescue Plan that was passed in 2021 to help people during the pandemic. If you never got your third stimulus payment (which was up to $1,400 per person), you might still be able to claim that money now. But here’s the catch—you can only do that by filing a 2021 tax return with the IRS, even if you don’t usually file taxes.

This isn’t a new stimulus check. It’s money from 2021 that some people never received—and the IRS is giving you one last chance to claim it.

Why Are People Saying “$2,400”?

This is where things get a little confusing. People keep mentioning $2,400, but that’s probably because married couples could receive $1,400 each, which adds up to $2,800. Some might be rounding down or misremembering the original payment amounts, and that’s how the “$2,400” rumor started. It’s not a brand-new check—it’s just money from a past program that’s still available to claim.

Who Might Still Qualify for the Payment?

You might be eligible for the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit if:

• You didn’t get the third stimulus check in 2021
• You never filed a 2021 tax return, or there was an error in your return
• You fall within the income limits:
  • Single filers: Up to $75,000
  • Married couples filing jointly: Up to $150,000
  • Head of household: Up to $112,500

The payment amount starts to phase out if your income is above these thresholds.

Who Missed It the First Time?

A lot of people didn’t get the third stimulus check for one reason or another. Common cases include:

• College students who were dependents in 2020 but not in 2021
• Retirees or senior citizens who didn’t file taxes
• Low-income individuals who weren’t required to file
• Homeless individuals or people who changed addresses and never got their mail

These folks often fell through the cracks but still have a chance to claim what’s rightfully theirs.

How to Claim the $1,400 in 2025

If you think you missed out on that third stimulus payment, here’s how to claim it now:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Go to irs.gov/recovery-rebate-credit and see if you meet the criteria.

Step 2: File a 2021 Tax Return

Even if you didn’t earn enough to be required to file taxes, you must file a 2021 return to claim the credit. You can:

• Use IRS Free File (available for those earning under $73,000)
• File through tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block
• Hire a trusted local tax preparer

Make sure you fill out the Recovery Rebate Credit section correctly.

Step 3: Wait for Your Money

Once your return is processed, you should get your payment in about 3 to 6 weeks, either through direct deposit or a mailed check.

Bonus Tip: Create an IRS online account to track the status of your return and refund.

A Real-Life Example to Understand It Better

Let’s take Maria’s story. She’s 22, works part-time, and didn’t earn enough to file taxes in 2021. But in 2025, she learns about the Recovery Rebate Credit and files her return using IRS Free File. A few weeks later, $1,400 lands in her bank account—money she thought she’d never get.

Don’t Miss the Deadline

Here’s the most important part: the deadline to file your 2021 return and claim this credit is June 15, 2025. After that, the IRS won’t process any new requests related to this payment. If you even think you might qualify, don’t wait—go for it now.

Watch Out for Scams

Unfortunately, where money is involved, scams follow. Just a few quick reminders:

• The IRS will never call, email, or text you asking for personal details
• Only use the official IRS website for info or filing
• Don’t pay anyone who claims they can get you a “faster refund”
• Report any scams to TIGTA.gov

Final Thoughts

There’s no brand-new $2,400 stimulus check in 2025. But if you missed out on the $1,400 third stimulus back in 2021, there’s still time to claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit. Just be sure to file your 2021 return before June 15, 2025. That money could help you cover bills, pay rent, or just give you a little breathing room.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee payment. Always refer to the official IRS website or speak with a certified tax professional for accurate details about your eligibility and filing process.