$1,200 IRS Financial Boost from third week of April 2025: Good news! If you missed out on your full stimulus payment back in 2021, you might still be able to get up to $1,400 per person. This April, the IRS is issuing direct deposits as part of the Recovery Rebate Credit, but only if you file your 2021 tax return. The deadline is April 15, 2025, so don’t delay. In this article, we’ll explain who can qualify, how much you might get, and how to claim this money if you haven’t already.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a special tax refund for people who didn’t get the full third Economic Impact Payment (EIP), which was released in 2021. If your income changed, you had a baby, or you weren’t eligible earlier, you may now qualify based on your 2021 tax return.
The credit can be up to $1,400 per person, and many are now receiving $1,200+ direct deposits this April as part of this refund. But to get it, you must file your 2021 return before April 15, 2025.
Who Can Get the $1,200+ IRS Direct Deposit?
To qualify, you must meet the following conditions:
- You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021.
- You were not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return.
- You had a valid Social Security number.
- Your income met these limits:
- Filing Status Full Credit If AGI ≤ Phase Out Begins Fully Phased Out
- Single $75,000 $75,001 $80,000
- Married Joint $150,000 $150,001 $160,000
- Head of House $112,500 $112,501 $120,000
Examples of Who Might Qualify
New Parents: If you had a baby in 2021 and didn’t get a stimulus check for your child, you can now claim $1,400 for the new dependent.
Recent Graduates: If you were a dependent in 2020 but filed as independent in 2021, you can now get the payment for yourself.
How to Claim Your Payment Before the Deadline
Step 1: Collect Your Documents
You’ll need your 2021 income records, Social Security numbers, and IRS letters (like Letter 6475).
Step 2: File a 2021 Federal Tax Return
Even if you don’t usually file, you must do so to get this credit. Use the IRS Free File tool if your income is below $73,000.
Step 3: Fill Out the Recovery Rebate Credit Section
Most tax software or IRS Form 1040 will guide you through this easily.
Step 4: File by April 15, 2025
This is the final date. After this, you can’t claim the money.
Step 5: Choose Direct Deposit
Add your bank account details to get your refund faster.
Non-Filers: You Still Need to File
Even if your income was zero in 2021, or you were below the filing limit, you must still file a return to get the payment. The IRS won’t send it automatically.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the Deadline: April 15, 2025, is your last chance.
- Wrong Tax Year: Only your 2021 return matters for this credit.
- Incorrect Info: Double-check names, SSNs, and income details.
- Not Claiming Dependents: Add any new children born in 2021.
If you didn’t get your full third stimulus check, this is your second chance to claim it. The Recovery Rebate Credit could put $1,200 or more directly into your account this April, but only if you act fast. File your 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025, and make sure all details are correct. Whether you’re a new parent, a student, or someone whose income changed, this money can be a big help in 2025. Visit the official IRS website for safe and accurate information, and avoid scams or delays.
FAQ’s
What is the $1,200+ IRS payment in April 2025?
It is part of the Recovery Rebate Credit for those who didn’t get the full third Economic Impact Payment in 2021. Eligible people may receive up to $1,400.
Who qualifies for the Recovery Rebate Credit?
You must have been a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021, not claimed as a dependent, have a valid SSN, and meet the income requirements.
How do I claim the $1,200+ IRS payment?
File a 2021 federal tax return and complete the Recovery Rebate Credit section before the deadline of April 15, 2025.
Do I need to file taxes if I had zero income?
Yes. Even if you had no income in 2021, you must still file a 2021 tax return to claim the credit.
What happens if I miss the April 15, 2025 deadline?
You won’t be able to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit after that date. The deadline is final.
