Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government has issued several rounds of stimulus checks aimed at providing financial relief to citizens who have been affected by economic disruptions. These checks, formally known as Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), have helped millions of Americans stay afloat during uncertain times. However, despite these efforts, many eligible individuals have never received their stimulus funds, or may not have claimed them. If you are one of the many who missed out, you may still be able to claim these payments. In this guide, we will explain how you can check for unclaimed IRS stimulus checks and get the money you are owed.
What are stimulus checks and why are some still unclaimed?
Stimulus checks were part of the U.S. government’s response to the economic stress caused by the pandemic. The three rounds of payments (the first in 2020, the second in late 2020, and the third in 2021) were intended to help individuals and families by providing direct financial assistance to taxpayers.
While most eligible people received their payments, some did not, often due to factors such as incorrect bank account details, failure to file taxes, or missing deadlines. Additionally, certain groups, such as those who were not required to file a tax return, may not have received their funds automatically and had to take additional steps to claim.
Who was eligible for stimulus checks?
Eligibility for stimulus checks was determined based on several factors:
Income level: People with income below a certain threshold were eligible. The first round of payments was available to individuals earning up to $75,000 per year (for single filers), $112,500 for heads of household, and $150,000 for married couples filing jointly. The income limits for the second and third rounds were different, and eligibility was phased out as income increased.
Tax Filing Status: If you were a taxpayer, you likely received your stimulus payment automatically. However, some people who did not file taxes, or whose income was low and did not have to file, may have missed out.
Dependents: If you have children or other dependents who are eligible, you may have been eligible for additional money with each payment.
Non-filers: Some people, including seniors, Social Security recipients, and others who do not file taxes regularly, were not automatically sent their stimulus checks. These individuals were expected to file a simple tax return or use a special tool to claim their payment.
How to Check If You Are Eligible for Unclaimed Stimulus Payments
If you haven't received your stimulus check or suspect you
may be owed money, it's important to check your status with the IRS.
Fortunately, the IRS offers tools and resources that can help you track your
payments.
1. Use the IRS “Get My Payment” tool.
One of the easiest ways to check the status of your stimulus payments is through the IRS “Get My Payment” tool. This online tool allows you to track the status of your payments and determine whether you have received them or if there is an issue preventing you from receiving the funds. The tool will also tell you when your payment will be sent.
You can access the tool on the IRS website. If you are eligible for any missing payments, the tool will guide you on what steps to take.
2. IRS Notice 1444 and Notice 1444-B
If you receive a stimulus payment, the IRS will send you a notice (either Notice 1444 or Notice 1444-B) confirming the amount of your payment. These notices are important to help you verify whether you were paid. If you didn’t receive one, or if you’re not sure, reviewing these notices will help you confirm whether you received your stimulus checks.
3. Request a copy of your tax records.
The Get Transcript tool on the IRS website allows you to get a copy of your tax records, which will show you any Economic Impact Payments issued. This can help you confirm whether you received the full amount you were eligible for.
How to claim your unclaimed stimulus check.
If you miss out on receiving your stimulus check, you still have a chance to claim it. The process for claiming your missing payments may vary depending on whether you filed a tax return.
1. File a tax return (even if you don’t usually file)
For most people, the easiest way to claim their missed stimulus payments is to file a tax return. Even if you don’t usually file taxes, you may still be eligible for a stimulus payment, especially if you didn’t receive the full amount.
Recovery Rebate Credit: When you file your taxes, you should
claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your return. This credit ensures that you
receive the stimulus payments you were eligible for, even if the IRS initially
failed to send them.
2020 and 2021 tax returns: If you miss the first or second
stimulus payments, you can claim them on your 2020 taxes.
For the third payment, you can claim it on your 2021 tax return.
This process ensures that you get the money you were entitled to, and the IRS will release any missing payments after it processes your tax return.
2. Use the IRS Non-Filers Tool.
If you didn’t file taxes and weren’t required to, you can still claim your stimulus payments using the IRS Non-Filers Tool. This online tool was designed for people who don’t typically file taxes, such as low-income earners or seniors, and it allows you to register for a stimulus payment.
The tool requires basic information like your name, address, and Social Security number, along with your bank account details (if applicable) to receive a payment via direct deposit. The IRS recently discontinued this tool, but it can still be useful for earlier periods.
3. Check the deadline and follow up.
It’s important to be aware of the deadline for claiming payments you haven’t received. If you missed the tax deadline, you may still be able to file an amended return. However, you should check the IRS website for specific deadlines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming Unclaimed Stimulus
Checks
While claiming unclaimed stimulus payments can be straightforward, there are common mistakes people should watch out for:
Incorrect Information: Double-check your personal details when filing your tax return, including your bank account information, name, and Social Security number. A small mistake can delay the processing of your claim.
Missing Documents: Make sure you have all necessary documents, such as your Notice 1444, tax records, and any other required forms.
Scams and Fraud: Beware of fraudulent offers or messages
that claim to help you claim your stimulus check for a fee. The IRS will never
ask you to pay for your payment claim.
Conclusion
If you haven’t received your stimulus checks, it’s important to take the necessary steps to check your status and claim any missing funds. Whether you need to file a tax return, use IRS tools, or contact the agency directly, it’s not too late to claim the financial assistance you’re entitled to. By following these steps, you can ensure you don’t miss out on important economic relief, especially as we continue to navigate the post-pandemic landscape.
For anyone who is unsure about how to proceed, don’t
hesitate to contact the IRS or a tax professional for help. Stay proactive, and
remember, the government made these payments to help you, and you deserve to
receive the money you’re owed.
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