If you missed out on receiving your stimulus payment back in 2020, there’s still hope—but the clock is ticking. Many Americans may not realize that the Recovery Rebate Credit allows them to retroactively claim unpaid stimulus funds from the first and second COVID-19 relief packages. But with the filing deadline quickly approaching in 2025, it’s crucial to act fast before you permanently lose access to that money.
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is the IRS’s official method for helping people who didn’t receive their full 2020 stimulus payments. Whether you didn’t file a tax return, had a change in income, or were missed due to an error, this credit could entitle you to up to $1,200 for the first round and $600 for the second. By filing a 2020 tax return before the final deadline, you can still get what you’re owed.
Who Is Eligible to Claim?
To qualify, you must not have received the full stimulus amount in 2020 and must file a 2020 tax return by the May 17, 2024 deadline (postponed to 2025 for some). This includes people with no income, low-income individuals, seniors, students, and others who weren’t required to file originally. Many Americans are unaware they qualify simply because they didn’t meet the normal tax filing threshold.
How to File Your 2020 Taxes Now
You’ll need to submit a Form 1040 for the 2020 tax year, available on the IRS website. You can file electronically through IRS Free File or mail a paper return. If you’re unsure how to complete the form, seek help from a tax professional or a certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
Table – Claiming 2020 Stimulus in 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Stimulus Amount | Up to $1,800 total ($1,200 + $600) |
| Method to Claim | Recovery Rebate Credit on 2020 tax return |
| Deadline to File | May 17, 2024 (extended in some cases to 2025) |
| Who Can File | Anyone who didn’t receive full stimulus in 2020 |
| Required Form | IRS Form 1040 (2020 version) |
| Where to File | Online via IRS Free File or by mailing a paper return |
| Commonly Missed Groups | Seniors, low-income earners, dependents, students |
| Penalty for Missing Deadline | Permanent loss of eligibility for unclaimed stimulus |
If you think you were missed in the 2020 stimulus rollout, it’s not too late—but you need to act now. Filing your 2020 tax return to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit could mean up to $1,800 back in your pocket. As the final deadlines approach, take this opportunity seriously. This may be your last chance to receive money you were originally entitled to receive years ago.
FAQ’s:
1. Can I still claim my 2020 stimulus payment in 2025?
Yes, but only if the extended deadline applies to you. For most, the deadline was in 2024, but some have until 2025.
2. What form do I need to claim the money?
You must file a 2020 IRS Form 1040 and include the Recovery Rebate Credit.
3. What if I never filed taxes before?
You can still file a late return for 2020, even if you had no income. That’s how you claim the credit.
4. How do I know if I got the full 2020 stimulus?
Check your IRS account online or review IRS notices (Notice 1444, 1444-B) sent in 2020 and 2021.
5. What happens if I miss the deadline?
You will no longer be eligible to receive the 2020 stimulus payment—it’s a use-it-or-lose-it situation.
