If you’ve seen headlines or social media posts buzzing about a $1,750 stimulus check coming in April 2025, you’re not alone. While this number is catching attention, the reality is more nuanced. There is no officially approved $1,750 stimulus check as of now. Instead, millions of Americans still have an opportunity to claim up to $1,400 from the 2021 stimulus program through the Recovery Rebate Credit—but the deadline is quickly approaching.
Let’s break down the facts, clarify the confusion, and guide you through how to claim this money if you haven’t already.
Table of Contents
What’s Actually Available? Understanding the $1,400 Stimulus Credit
What Is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a refundable tax credit tied to the third round of stimulus payments issued in 2021 under the American Rescue Plan. If you missed out, received less than you were eligible for, or didn’t file taxes in 2021, you may still qualify.
This credit:
- Is worth up to $1,400 per eligible adult
- Is not taxable
- Will not reduce your refund unless you owe taxes
- Can increase your refund or reduce what you owe
This is not a loan, and it won’t impact other benefits.
Why Is April 15, 2025 So Important?
The IRS has set April 15, 2025, as the final deadline to claim the $1,400 credit by filing your 2021 federal tax return. After this date, the opportunity to recover that money disappears for good—no extensions will be granted.
Who’s Eligible for the $1,400 Stimulus Credit?
To qualify for the full amount, your 2021 income must fall within the following thresholds:
Income Requirements
- Single Filers: AGI up to $75,000
- Married Filing Jointly: AGI up to $150,000
- Head of Household: AGI up to $112,500
The credit phases out completely at:
- $80,000 (Single)
- $160,000 (Married)
- $120,000 (Head of Household)
Additional Criteria
You must also:
- Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
- Have been alive in 2021
Step-by-Step: How to Claim the $1,400 Credit Before the Deadline
Even if you had no income in 2021, you may still qualify. Here’s how to file:
Step 1: Gather Your 2021 Documents
Collect your W-2s, 1099s, or any proof of income for 2021.
Step 2: File Your 2021 Tax Return
Use any of the following trusted tools:
- TurboTax, H&R Block, or a certified local tax preparer
Step 3: Fill Out the Recovery Rebate Worksheet
This will calculate how much you’re eligible to receive.
Step 4: Report the Credit
Enter the result on Line 30 of your Form 1040 or 1040-SR.
Step 5: File Electronically
This ensures faster processing and speeds up your refund.
Already Filed in 2021 But Missed the Credit?
If you submitted your 2021 taxes but didn’t claim the credit, you can still fix it:
How to Amend Your Tax Return
- File Form 1040-X
- Use online tax software or consult a professional
- Indicate clearly that you are amending to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
Common Mistakes That Could Cost You the Credit
- Assuming you already received it—Check your IRS Online Account to confirm
- Thinking you can’t file due to no income—you still may be eligible
- Waiting too long—the April 15, 2025 deadline is absolute
Who Shouldn’t Expect a Payment?
Not everyone qualifies. Here’s who won’t be eligible:
- Non-resident aliens
- Dependents claimed on someone else’s return
- High-income individuals above phase-out limits
- Deceased individuals prior to 2021
- Anyone who already received the full $1,400 amount
What About the $1,750 Stimulus Rumor?
As of now, the $1,750 figure has no basis in legislation or official IRS announcements. It’s likely an exaggerated or misinterpreted claim based on the $1,400 Recovery Rebate Credit, which some sources have speculated may be increased—but nothing has been confirmed.
Always rely on information directly from the IRS or .gov sources, and beware of misinformation spreading on social platforms or unofficial blogs.
Pro Tips for Low-Income and Elderly Americans
- Use IRS Free File, even if you earned less than the filing threshold
- Take advantage of free local tax help through VITA or AARP programs
- Consider electronic filing to avoid delays, though paper is still an option
Final Thoughts: Time Is Running Out
There may not be a new $1,750 stimulus on the way, but the $1,400 payment from 2021 is still up for grabs if you act before April 15, 2025. Whether you forgot to file, didn’t qualify at the time, or were simply unaware, this is your final shot to claim what you’re owed.
If you’re unsure where to start, consider reaching out to a tax professional or visiting IRS.gov to get the help you need.