IRS Sends New Payments in 2025: If you’ve been hearing buzz about the IRS sending new payments in 2025, you’re not alone. Whether it’s through news headlines, social media, or conversations with friends, the topic is front and center for many Americans. But what exactly is happening? Are these new stimulus checks? Are Social Security recipients getting a bonus? And how can you make sure you don’t miss out? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know.
In 2025, the IRS isn’t sending out new stimulus payments like those from the height of the pandemic. Instead, it is issuing special one-time payments to about 1 million taxpayers who were eligible for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) but never received it. These payments can amount to as much as $1,400 per person, and in some cases, thousands per family. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, or you’re looking for instructions on how to claim or track your payment, read on. We’ve broken it all down into simple, digestible steps.
IRS Sends New Payments in 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Type | Special one-time Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) payments |
| Number of Recipients | Approximately 1 million taxpayers |
| Amount | Up to $1,400 per eligible person |
| Eligibility | Taxpayers who filed a 2021 return but did not claim the RRC |
| Deadline to Claim | April 15, 2025 for 2021 tax return filing |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or mailed check |
| IRS Official Site | irs.gov |
While 2025 may not be bringing new stimulus programs, it does offer an important opportunity for millions of Americans to receive the money they were originally entitled to back in 2021. Whether you’re a retiree, working parent, or college student who didn’t know you qualified, now’s the time to check your status.
Take a few minutes to log into your IRS account or file your 2021 tax return. The process is easier than ever, and with the deadline of April 15, 2025 quickly approaching, there’s no time to waste.
These payments could mean an extra few hundred to a few thousand dollars in your pocket. That’s real money for groceries, rent, transportation, or savings. Don’t miss your chance to claim it.
What Is the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC)?
The Recovery Rebate Credit was created to ensure that people who missed out on the third Economic Impact Payment (EIP3) during the COVID-19 pandemic still had a chance to claim it. This credit was worth up to $1,400 per adult and per dependent. If you didn’t get this money in 2021, you could still receive it by claiming the RRC on your 2021 tax return.
The challenge? Many people qualified but never got the payment because they didn’t file a return, filed incorrectly, or left the RRC section blank. Recognizing this, the IRS reviewed 2021 tax filings and began automatically issuing payments in late 2024 and early 2025 to those who were eligible.
Who Was Eligible?
To qualify for this payment, the IRS requires that you:
- Filed a 2021 federal tax return but left the RRC blank or entered $0 by mistake.
- Did not receive the full amount of the third stimulus check.
- Were a U.S. citizen or resident alien in 2021.
- Were not claimed as a dependent by someone else.
If you meet these criteria and haven’t received the payment, there’s still time to act.
How Much Could You Get?
The payment amounts are straightforward:
- $1,400 per adult
- $1,400 per qualifying child or dependent
Let’s say you’re a single parent with two children. You could receive $4,200. If you’re married and have two kids, your household may be eligible for a full $5,600. These amounts could make a big difference, especially if you’re managing bills, paying off debt, or saving for the future.
Track Your IRS Payment in 2025
The IRS “Get My Payment” tool used in previous years is no longer active. But don’t worry—there are still effective ways to see whether your payment is coming.
1. Log In to Your IRS Online Account
- Go to IRS.gov/account
- Sign in or create an account
- Look under “Tax Records” for payments listed as “Recovery Rebate Credit”
- You can also see your balance, tax transcripts, and other helpful info
2. Use the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
If you recently filed or amended a 2021 return to claim the RRC:
- Visit Where’s My Refund?
- Enter your SSN, filing status, and refund amount
- The tool will show the current status of your claim
3. Check Your Mail for IRS Letters
The IRS sends physical letters (such as Letter 6475) to notify you of any payments issued. Don’t throw them out! These documents are essential for recordkeeping and future filings.
What If You Haven’t Filed Your 2021 Return Yet?
Great news: You still have time to file and claim your credit.
You are eligible to receive the 2021 RRC even if you didn’t file a tax return back then—as long as you do so before April 15, 2025. Many low-income individuals and retirees didn’t file because they weren’t required to, but they could still be owed money.
IRS Sends New Payments in 2025 File:
- Visit IRS Free File
- Choose a tax software provider (many are free for incomes under $73,000)
- Fill out and submit your 2021 return
This could take as little as 30 minutes and might get you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
What About Social Security Recipients?
If you’re receiving Social Security, you might be wondering if there’s extra help coming your way. While there’s no additional stimulus in 2025, there is good news in the form of Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA).
2025 COLA Breakdown:
- Increase: 3.2%
- Effective Date: Benefits adjusted starting January 2025
- Applies To: Social Security retirement, disability (SSDI), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients
To learn more or calculate your updated benefits, visit the Social Security COLA page.
Claim or Track Your 2025 IRS Payment
Follow these steps to ensure you get every dollar you’re owed:
- Check If You Got the Payment:
- Sign in at IRS.gov/account
- Look for any payment entries labeled “Recovery Rebate Credit“
- File a 2021 Return If Needed:
- Go to IRS Free File
- Choose a provider and file your 2021 return by April 15, 2025
- Contact the IRS If You Believe There’s an Error:
- Call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040
- Visit your local IRS office (locations available here)
- Bring any supporting documents and ID
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FAQs On IRS Sends New Payments in 2025
Is this a new stimulus check?
No, this is a delayed payment tied to the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, not a new round of COVID-19 stimulus.
Do I need to apply to receive it?
Not necessarily. If the IRS already has your tax info and you qualify, they will send the payment automatically. If not, you’ll need to file your 2021 return.
What if I never received any of the third stimulus checks?
You may still be eligible. File your 2021 tax return and claim the full amount of the RRC before the April 2025 deadline.
Will this money count as income for 2025?
No. The RRC is a tax credit, meaning it’s not considered taxable income.
What if I lost the IRS letter or didn’t get one?
You can confirm your payment through your IRS online account.
