Sun Apr 06 20:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Last Chance for Unclaimed 2021 Stimulus Checks: April 15 Deadline Looms

**New York, NY (CNBC)** – Taxpayers have until April 15th to claim unclaimed 2021 stimulus payments, totaling over $1 billion, the IRS announced. Millions of Americans may be eligible for up to $1,400 in recovery rebate credits if they haven’t yet filed their 2021 tax return.

The IRS warned that the three-year window for claiming these refunds is closing rapidly. Those who didn’t receive their stimulus payment can claim the credit on their 2021 return. Failure to file by the deadline could mean missing out not only on the stimulus money but also other tax breaks, such as the earned income tax credit.

“If you didn’t get the stimulus, you’re running out of time,” said Syracuse University law professor Robert Nassau. He urged taxpayers to file, even if it means paying for certified mail to ensure timely delivery. The IRS has reported more than 1.1 million unclaimed refunds, averaging $781 each (excluding credits).

While free tax filing options exist, Nassau cautioned that some may not support electronic filing for 2021 returns, necessitating potentially slower mail submissions. Taxpayers can check their stimulus payment status and filing history via their IRS online account. The IRS also plans to automatically send payments to approximately 1 million taxpayers who didn’t claim the credit in 2021, but these are expected to arrive much later.

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