If you missed out on the first round of stimulus checks, you’re not alone. Millions of eligible Americans never received their initial Economic Impact Payment due to outdated IRS records, non-filing status, or issues with mailing and bank details. The good news? It’s still possible to claim your second stimulus check, even if the deadline has passed. Here’s how you can find out if you’re eligible, what steps to take, and how to secure the payment you may be owed.
Who Qualifies for the Second Stimulus?
Eligibility for the second stimulus check (which was up to $600 per individual) was based on your 2019 tax return. Individuals earning under $75,000 and couples earning under $150,000 qualified for the full amount. If you didn’t file a return but met the income requirements—or if you were claimed incorrectly as a dependent—you could still be eligible by filing a 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit.
Why You May Have Missed It
There are several reasons people missed the first or second stimulus: not filing taxes, outdated address or bank info, or being incorrectly marked as a dependent. If you didn’t receive a check and believe you qualified, the IRS offers a solution: claim it on your tax return using the Recovery Rebate Credit section of Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
How to Claim a Missed Second Stimulus Check
To receive a missed payment, you must file a federal tax return for the year 2020 and include the Recovery Rebate Credit. This credit allows the IRS to issue the unpaid portion of either the first or second stimulus with your tax refund. Even if you don’t normally file taxes, doing so now can unlock your missed stimulus funds.
How to Check Payment Status
You can check your payment history by logging into your IRS online account. There, you’ll see details about whether your stimulus was sent, returned, or never processed. This can help determine what action to take and whether you’re eligible for a credit or resubmission.
Summary Table – Second Stimulus Recovery
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Second Stimulus Amount | Up to $600 per person |
| Eligibility Requirements | Income under $75k (single) / $150k (married), valid SSN, not dependent |
| Missed It? | File 2020 tax return + Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Non-Filer Option | IRS portal (closed now), must file return manually |
| Check Status | Via IRS online account or tax transcript |
| Refund Method | Included in 2020 tax refund |
| Common Reasons for Missing | Moved, bank info wrong, non-filer, claimed as dependent |
Missing out on a stimulus check doesn’t mean you’ve lost that money forever. The IRS has provided a way to claim missed payments through the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2020 tax return. Whether due to an error, non-filing, or an address issue, you still have a chance to receive what you’re owed. Take action now—especially if you haven’t filed for 2020—and reclaim your second stimulus check before it’s too late.
FAQ’s:
1. Can I still get the second stimulus check in 2025?
Yes, if you file or amend your 2020 tax return with the Recovery Rebate Credit, you can still claim the second stimulus.
2. What if I didn’t file taxes in 2020?
You must file a 2020 federal return to receive the missed payment—even if you had zero income.
3. Is the second stimulus payment taxable?
No, stimulus checks are not taxable and will not reduce your refund or increase your tax bill.
4. What if I was wrongly claimed as a dependent?
If you were incorrectly listed as a dependent, you can file your own return to claim your stimulus as a credit.
5. How do I know if the IRS sent my check?
Check your IRS online account or use the Get My Payment tool (if available) to track any past payments.
