As inflation continues to pinch wallets across the United States, rumors of $1400 stimulus checks resurfacing in May 2025 have sparked widespread interest. Many Americans are eager for financial relief, but the federal government has not greenlit a new round of Economic Impact Payments. Instead, the focus has shifted to state-level initiatives and unclaimed funds from 2021. This article unpacks the latest on these payments, who might be eligible, and how to secure funds before deadlines pass.
No Federal Stimulus, But States Step Up
Despite social media buzz, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has confirmed no federal $1400 stimulus checks are planned for May 2025. The last federal payments, part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan, provided up to $1400 per person. However, some states have launched their own relief programs to ease economic strain. Minnesota, New Jersey, and California, for instance, are distributing targeted payments to low-income families, seniors, or specific groups like Sacramento’s Family First program, which offers $725 monthly to 200 families until November 2025.
Unclaimed 2021 Funds: Last Chance
For those who missed the 2021 $1400 stimulus, there’s still hope—but time is running out. The IRS estimates 1.1 million taxpayers are eligible for unclaimed Recovery Rebate Credits worth $1 billion. These are funds from the third stimulus round that never reached eligible individuals, often due to unfiled 2021 tax returns. The deadline to file and claim this credit is April 15, 2025. The IRS has already sent $2.4 billion to 1 million taxpayers who didn’t claim the credit but filed returns, with payments arriving through January 2025.
| Program | Eligibility | Deadline | Max Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recovery Rebate Credit | 2021 AGI ≤ $75,000 (single), ≤ $150,000 (joint) | April 15, 2025 | $1400 per person |
| MN Tax Rebate | 2024 tax filers, low/moderate income | Varies | Up to $1400 |
| NJ ANCHOR | Seniors, low-income renters | Varies | Up to $1400 |
Who Qualifies for Payments?
Eligibility for state programs varies but often mirrors federal stimulus criteria. For the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, single filers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) under $75,000 or joint filers under $150,000 qualify for the full $1400. Payments phase out at $80,000 (single) or $160,000 (joint). State programs, like Minnesota’s tax rebates or New Jersey’s ANCHOR, prioritize low-income households or seniors, requiring 2024 tax filings. A valid Social Security Number and U.S. residency are typically mandatory.
How to Claim Your Money
To secure unclaimed 2021 funds, file a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, even if your income was minimal. Use IRS Form 1040 or 1040-SR and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. Check payment status via the IRS’s “Get My Payment” tool or your online IRS account. For state programs, visit your state’s Department of Revenue website to confirm eligibility and deadlines. Beware of scams—never share personal details via unsolicited calls or texts.
Act Now or Miss Out
With the April 15, 2025, deadline looming, eligible taxpayers must act swiftly to claim unclaimed stimulus funds. State relief programs offer additional lifelines, but details vary widely. Checking official state and IRS websites ensures you don’t miss out on potential relief. As economic pressures persist, these payments could provide crucial support for struggling households, making it worth the effort to verify your eligibility today.