The IRS Is Distributing $1,400 Checks: Here’s What You Need to Know
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is distributing stimulus payments of up to $1,400 to nearly 1 million eligible Americans who missed out on previous payments. This move comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure all qualifying individuals receive the financial aid they are entitled to.
If you haven’t received your stimulus check yet, you might still qualify. Here’s a detailed breakdown of who is eligible, how to claim the money, and what to do if you haven’t received your payment.
Why Is the IRS Sending These Payments Now?
The I R S regularly reviews tax records and financial data to identify eligible Americans who didn’t receive past stimulus payments. Many of these cases involve individuals who had issues with their tax returns, bank details, or did not file their taxes in time.
The funds are part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan, which authorized stimulus checks worth $1,400 per person. While most eligible recipients received their payments two years ago, some people fell through the cracks. The I R S is now making efforts to fix this and distribute the money to those who are still owed their payments.
Who Qualifies for the $1,400 Payment?
Not everyone will receive these stimulus checks. To qualify for the payment, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:
1. People Who Missed Their Original Payment
- If you were eligible for the third stimulus payment in 2021 but never received it, the IRS may be sending you the money now.
- This applies to individuals whose tax information was missing or incorrect at the time.
2. Low-Income Americans & Non-Filers
- Those who did not file a 2020 or 2021 tax return but were eligible for the stimulus payment may now receive their check.
- Many low-income individuals and senior citizens were unable to claim their payments because they did not file taxes.
3. Americans Who Recently Filed a Tax Return
- If you recently filed a late 2020 or 2021 tax return, the I R S may have now identified you as eligible for the payment.
4. Those Who Had Tax Return Adjustments
- If the IR S reviewed and corrected your tax records, you may now be qualified for the payment.
Income Limits for Eligibility
The payment is income-based, meaning you must have earned below a certain amount:
- Individuals earning $75,000 or less qualify for the full payment.
- Married couples filing jointly must earn $150,000 or less to qualify.
- Head of household filers must earn $112,500 or less.
- Payments gradually decrease for higher earners and phase out completely at $80,000 (single filers) and $160,000 (joint filers).
How Will You Receive the Payment?
The I R S will distribute these stimulus payments through:
- Direct Deposit – If the I R S has your bank details on file, the money will be deposited directly into your account.
- Paper Checks – If no bank details are available, the IRS will send a physical check to your mailing address.
- Prepaid Debit Cards – In some cases, the IRS may send payments via Economic Impact Payment (EIP) cards.
What If You Haven’t Received It Yet?
- Check your IRS account online – You can log into the I R S website to check your payment status.
- Wait for a mailed notice – The I R S typically sends a letter confirming payment eligibility.
- Ensure your mailing address is up to date – If you moved recently, update your address with the I R S.
What to Do If You Believe You’re Eligible But Haven’t Received Your Payment
If you think you qualify for the $1,400 stimulus but haven’t received it, here are the steps you can take:
1. File a 2021 or 2022 Tax Return
- Even if you don’t normally file taxes, submitting a 2021 or 2022 tax return may help you claim the payment.
- Use the IRS Free File program if you earn below $73,000 per year.
2. Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
- If you missed out on the third stimulus payment, you can still claim it as a tax credit on your 2021 tax return.
- The Recovery Rebate Credit is available for those who were eligible but didn’t receive their payment.
3. Contact the IRS
- Call the IRS helpline at 1-800-829-1040 for assistance.
- Visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center for in-person help.
- Check the IRS “Get My Payment” tool online.
Scam Warning: Watch Out for Fake IRS Messages
With news of stimulus payments, scammers often try to take advantage of people. Beware of:
- Fake IRS Emails or Calls – The IRS never calls or emails about stimulus payments.
- Texts Asking for Personal Info – Do not click on links in messages claiming to be from the IRS.
- Social Media Scams – Ignore posts or messages claiming to help you get stimulus money for a fee.
If you receive a suspicious message, report it to the IRS via email at phishing@irs.gov.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss Your Payment!
This is a great opportunity for eligible Americans to finally receive the stimulus money they missed. If you think you qualify, take action by checking your IRS status, filing a tax return if needed, and staying informed about updates.
Check your IRS status today and claim your money before it’s too late!
