$200 More in Your Pocket This April: April 2025 brings a series of important financial updates and opportunities that could put more money in your pocket — in some cases, as much as $200 or more. Whether you’re a retiree, a working parent, or someone who missed a past stimulus payment, there are several ways to take advantage of government support and maximize your income this month.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore who qualifies, how much you could receive, and what steps to take. If you’re wondering how these updates impact your budget, taxes, or retirement planning, you’re in the right place.
$200 More in Your Pocket This April
| Opportunity | Details | Action Required | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recovery Rebate Credit | Up to $1,400 if you missed the 2021 stimulus payment | File a 2021 tax return | April 15, 2025 |
| Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | Double SSI payment in May; no payment in June | No action needed | N/A |
| Social Security Fairness Act | Monthly benefit increases + retroactive payment (~$6,710 avg.) | No action needed | N/A |
| Child Tax Credit | Up to $3,600 per qualifying child | File a 2021 tax return | April 15, 2025 |
| Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | Up to $7,830 for low to moderate-income workers | File a 2021 tax return | April 15, 2025 |
Recovery Rebate Credit: Last Chance to Claim $1,400
The Recovery Rebate Credit allows eligible individuals to claim up to $1,400 if they missed the third round of stimulus checks in 2021. This is a real chance to catch up on money owed to you.
Who Qualifies?
- U.S. citizens or resident aliens in 2021
- Those not claimed as a dependent by someone else
- Individuals with a valid Social Security number
- Income below $75,000 for single filers or $150,000 for married couples
What to Do:
- File a 2021 federal tax return — even if you normally don’t.
- Check your IRS records to confirm you didn’t receive the payment.
- Choose direct deposit for faster refunds.
Deadline: April 15, 2025
Don’t miss this opportunity — it’s your last chance to claim the credit.
SSI Recipients: Payment Schedule Shift Means Two Checks in May
If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), April might seem like a normal month, but May brings a surprise: you’ll receive two SSI payments — one at the beginning of the month and one at the end.
Why This Happens:
When the first of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is made on the previous business day. Since June 1 is a Sunday, the June payment will arrive early — on May 30.
What It Means:
- April: One regular payment on April 1
- May: Two payments (May 1 and May 30)
- June: No payment (already paid on May 30)
This change doesn’t increase your income overall, but it helps with cash flow planning.
Social Security Fairness Act: Boosted Benefits for Retirees
The Social Security Fairness Act was signed into law in January 2025. It repeals two controversial rules — the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) — that reduced Social Security benefits for many retirees.
What’s New:
- Monthly benefit increases averaging $360
- Retroactive payments issued, averaging $6,710
- No application needed — payments are automatic
If you worked in a job that didn’t pay into Social Security (like certain public sector roles), you may have been affected by these now-removed provisions.
Child Tax Credit: Up to $3,600 Per Child Still Available
Missed claiming the Child Tax Credit in 2021? There’s still time to file your return and receive the payment — even if you earned little or no income.
How Much You Can Get:
- $3,600 per child under 6
- $3,000 per child ages 6 to 17
Even families who don’t normally file taxes may qualify for the full credit.
What to Do:
- File a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025
- Include all qualifying dependents
- Choose direct deposit for quicker access to funds
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Extra Support for Working Families
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) helps low to moderate-income workers by reducing taxes and potentially issuing refunds.
Who Can Get It?
- Single or married workers with or without children
- Income limits depend on household size (up to ~$59,000)
- You must have earned income (like wages or self-employment income)
Credit Amounts:
- Up to $7,830 depending on your family size
- Available even if you owe no taxes
This credit is one of the most effective anti-poverty tools in the U.S.
Three Remaining Social Security Payouts Before 2025: How to Get Yours and Check Eligibility
Get $967 and $1,450 Social Security Payments As April 1st Deposits: Check Eligibility Criteria!
Increased SNAP Allowances for Seniors 60+ : Check Revised Payment Amount, Eligibility
FAQs About $200 More in Your Pocket This April
I don’t usually file taxes. Can I still claim the Recovery Rebate or Child Tax Credit?
Yes! Even if you have little or no income, you can still file a tax return to claim these credits. Many people have missed out simply because they didn’t file.
Is the $200 mentioned for everyone?
Not directly. The “extra $200” refers to average increases due to SSI scheduling quirks, boosted Social Security benefits, or unclaimed tax credits like the Recovery Rebate. Individual amounts vary.
Will I lose out on my June SSI payment if I get two in May?
No — the May 30 payment covers June’s benefit. There is no extra or missing money, just a shift in timing.
Do I need to apply for Social Security benefit increases?
No. If you’re eligible due to the Social Security Fairness Act, you’ll receive increased monthly payments and any retroactive pay automatically.
What if I miss the April 15, 2025 deadline?
If you don’t file your 2021 tax return by the deadline, you may permanently lose your chance to claim the Recovery Rebate and other related credits. File ASAP to avoid missing out.
