Even though the pandemic-era stimulus programs officially ended, millions of Americans are still eligible for unclaimed payments they may have missed. The IRS has confirmed that several forms of relief from 2020 and 2021 — including Economic Impact Payments and Recovery Rebate Credits — can still be claimed through tax filings. If you didn’t receive the full amount during the pandemic, or missed a check entirely, you could still be owed hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
What Stimulus Can You Still Claim?
Many people are unaware that they can still claim the first, second, or third stimulus checks issued during the COVID-19 pandemic. These are available through the Recovery Rebate Credit, which must be claimed by filing a tax return for the relevant year (2020 or 2021). Additionally, expanded child tax credits and earned income tax credits are also still on the table for qualified filers who didn’t receive them.
Who Might Be Eligible?
You may be eligible if you didn’t file a return during 2020 or 2021, had a newborn or dependent child in those years, or saw a drop in income that made you eligible for payments retroactively. Some people were excluded because of outdated IRS records, direct deposit errors, or missed filing deadlines — all of which can now be corrected through late returns or amended filings.
How to Claim Unreceived Stimulus Payments
To claim missed payments, you’ll need to file a 2020 or 2021 tax return, even if you don’t normally file taxes. Use IRS Form 1040 and include the Recovery Rebate Credit section. Free filing options are available for many low-income earners. You can also file amended returns if you filed but didn’t receive the correct stimulus amount. Be sure to gather all relevant IRS letters or payment records for accuracy.
How Much Could You Get?
Depending on your eligibility, the unclaimed stimulus could be as high as $1,200 (1st round), $600 (2nd round), and $1,400 (3rd round) per adult and dependent. If you missed multiple payments or added dependents, your refund could exceed $3,000. Child tax credits worth up to $3,600 per child and enhanced EITC amounts are also still available for those who qualify.
Table – Pandemic-Era Stimulus Still Claimable
| Type of Relief | Maximum Amount | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Stimulus Check (2020) | $1,200 per adult | File/amend 2020 tax return |
| 2nd Stimulus Check (2020) | $600 per adult | File/amend 2020 tax return |
| 3rd Stimulus Check (2021) | $1,400 per adult | File/amend 2021 tax return |
| Child Tax Credit (2021) | Up to $3,600 per child | File/amend 2021 tax return |
| Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Up to $1,500+ | File 2020/2021 return if eligible |
Don’t leave money on the table. If you missed out on any pandemic stimulus payments, you still have a chance to claim them — but time is running out. Filing your 2020 and 2021 tax returns can unlock thousands in unclaimed relief. Whether it’s a missed stimulus check, child tax credit, or EITC refund, now is the time to act. Check your eligibility, gather your documents, and file before the IRS closes the window on these historic relief programs.
FAQ’s:
1. Can I still get my first or second stimulus check if I never filed taxes?
Yes, you can claim both by filing a 2020 tax return with the Recovery Rebate Credit.
2. Is there a deadline to claim these payments?
Yes, typically you have three years from the original tax due date — meaning mid-April 2024 for 2020 returns and April 2025 for 2021.
3. What if I didn’t get the full amount for my child?
You can claim the child tax credit retroactively by amending your 2021 return to include all eligible dependents.
4. Do I need to pay taxes on the stimulus money I receive now?
No, stimulus payments are not considered taxable income.
5. Where can I file for free?
Visit the IRS Free File website or use an IRS-approved tax prep service if your income qualifies.
