Sun Jul 06 07:10:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Missed the Stimulus Check Deadline? Here’s What You Need to Know**
*By Maria Francis, Mid-Atlantic Connect Team*
Millions of Americans received stimulus checks during the COVID-19 pandemic, but some taxpayers may wonder if they are still eligible for unclaimed funds or future payments. With the deadline to claim the last stimulus check having passed, here’s an update on stimulus check eligibility and their status.
**Past Stimulus Checks: A Recap**
Three rounds of stimulus checks were issued:
* **First Stimulus (2020):** Up to $1,200 for individuals, $2,400 for married couples, plus $500 per qualifying child.
* **Second Stimulus (2021):** Up to $600 per individual, $1,200 for married couples, plus $600 per qualifying child.
* **Third Stimulus (2021):** $1,400 per eligible individual, plus $1,400 for each qualifying dependent for married couples filing jointly.
**Deadlines Have Passed:**
The deadlines to claim the first, second, and third stimulus checks have expired. The last opportunity to claim the third stimulus check, also known as the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return, was **April 15, 2025**.
“There are no extensions or appeals available for missed deadlines, and any unclaimed stimulus payments become the property of the U.S. Treasury,” explains the IRS.
**Future Stimulus Checks?**
Speculation about a fourth stimulus check of $2,000 has circulated on social media, but there has been no official confirmation from Congress or the IRS. “Any such news should be taken with caution as it could be misinformation or attempted fraud,” says the IRS.
While Donald Trump mentioned considering a “DOGE dividend” to pay out $5,000 stimulus checks, he has not provided any further specifics.
**Tracking Your Tax Refund:**
If you filed your federal taxes electronically and included your banking information, then you may expect a direct deposit within 21 days. If you did not include banking information, then you may expect a paper check refund via the mail within six to eight weeks. The IRS has an online tool called “Where’s My Refund” that allows you to check on the status of your refund.
**Important Note:**
The IRS advises working directly with them or a reputable tax professional to address missing stimulus payments. If your taxes were electronically filed and accepted by April 15, it is estimated that you may expect a direct deposit federal refund from the IRS by May 6 or June 16th by mail.
First Piper 