A second chance is here for millions of Americans to get stimulus money they missed during the pandemic. The $1,390 stimulus payment rolling out in August 2025 is aimed at people who didn’t receive the full third round of COVID-19 relief in 2021. Whether you were left out because of a missed tax filing, a change in income, or a new child, you may now be eligible for this payment through the Recovery Rebate Credit. But there’s a deadline—July 15, 2025—and missing it means missing the money for good.
Table of Contents
Overview
The upcoming $1,390 payment is not new government aid—it’s unpaid stimulus funds from 2021. The IRS is issuing these payments automatically to eligible individuals who already filed correctly, and offering one last chance to those who didn’t.
Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,390 per eligible individual |
| Eligibility | Missed or under-received 2021 stimulus payment |
| Deadline to File | July 15, 2025 |
| Income Thresholds | Single: $75K, Joint: $150K, HoH: $112,500 |
| How to Claim | File a 2021 tax return, claim Recovery Rebate |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or paper check |
| Official Resource | irs.gov |
$1,390 Stimulus
Back in 2021, under the American Rescue Plan, the IRS issued up to $1,400 in stimulus (EIP 3) to eligible individuals. But many never got the full amount. Some didn’t file taxes, some were claimed as dependents, and others had babies or income changes that weren’t reflected in the IRS’s records at the time.
Fast forward to 2025, and the IRS is offering another window to claim that money using the Recovery Rebate Credit. It’s your last chance to claim what you were already owed.
Who Qualifies?
You may be eligible if:
- You were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021
- You had a valid Social Security number
- You were not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2021 return
- Your 2021 Adjusted Gross Income met the limits below:
| Filing Status | Full Credit Income | Phase-Out Ends At |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $75,000 | $80,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $150,000 | $160,000 |
| Head of Household | $112,500 | $120,000 |
The credit gradually phases out above those limits, so even if your income was slightly higher, you might still qualify for a partial payment.
Step-by-Step Guide
- IRS Notice 1444-C or Letter 6475
- W-2s, 1099s, or other income documents
- Social Security numbers for yourself and dependents
Use the Right Tax Form
- File Form 1040 or 1040-SR (for seniors)
- Use updated forms with a Recovery Rebate Credit section
Complete the Recovery Rebate Credit (Line 30)
Make sure to claim the credit on Line 30 of your 2021 tax form. Use IRS worksheets or online tax software to calculate it accurately.
File Electronically
- Use IRS Free File if you earn under $73,000
- Choose trusted tax software or a tax professional
Track Your Payment
After filing, check the IRS “Get My Payment” tool to track your refund or stimulus status. Make sure your direct deposit info or mailing address is correct.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not filing because you assume you’re ineligible
- Using income from the wrong year—2021 is what matters
- Forgetting dependents—they can add up to $1,400 per child
- Missing the July 15, 2025 deadline—this is final
- Falling for scams—the IRS won’t call, text, or email you about the payment
Expert Advice
Tax professionals suggest acting early and using e-file tools for faster processing. If you’re unsure about your 2021 status, consider:
- Consulting a CPA
- Visiting a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site
- Double-checking old IRS mail for previous stimulus details
Real-Life Examples
John was claimed as a dependent in 2020 but not in 2021. He earned $20,000 that year and didn’t receive the 2021 stimulus. Now he can file a 2021 return and claim the full $1,390.
Maria and Pedro
Married with a joint income of $145,000 in 2021. They had a baby in December that year but didn’t update the IRS. They can now file to claim stimulus money for their child.
This isn’t just free money—it’s your money, and the IRS is giving you one last chance to claim it. But you need to file before July 15, 2025. If you haven’t filed your 2021 taxes or think you were underpaid, now’s the time to take action. Don’t wait.
FAQs
Who can get the $1,390 stimulus?
Anyone who missed or underclaimed the 2021 third-round stimulus.
When is the claim deadline?
You must file your 2021 return by July 15, 2025.
What form do I need to file?
Use Form 1040 or 1040-SR and complete Line 30 for the credit.
Is the $1,390 stimulus taxable?
No, the Recovery Rebate Credit is not considered taxable income.
Where can I file for free?
Use IRS Free File if your income is under $73,000.
