Stimulus Checks: In an exciting development for millions of Americans, $740 stimulus checks are now being distributed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These payments come as part of the final batch of Recovery Rebate Credit refunds for the 2021 tax year—giving eligible individuals and families a last chance to receive critical financial support.
But who qualifies for these payments? How can you claim the $740? And what steps must you take before the upcoming deadline?
Stimulus Checks of $740 Are Now Being Deposited
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $740 |
| Program Name | Recovery Rebate Credit (2021 Tax Year) |
| Eligibility Based On | Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) |
| Single Filers | AGI ≤ $75,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | AGI ≤ $150,000 |
| Head of Household | AGI ≤ $112,500 |
| Claim Deadline | April 15, 2025 (to file 2021 tax return) |
| How to Claim | File your 2021 tax return and claim Recovery Rebate Credit |
| Taxability | Non-taxable, won’t impact benefits like SSI, SNAP, or Medicaid |
| Official IRS Link | irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments |
This is your last chance to claim up to $740 that you may be rightfully owed. With the IRS deadline of April 15, 2025, ticking closer, it’s essential to act now—especially if you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return.
Whether you’re a senior, a part-time worker, or a low-income family, this payment could provide meaningful relief. Take the time to file, claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, and put the money back in your pocket.
What Is the $740 Stimulus Check All About?
This payment is not a new stimulus check like the ones issued in 2020 and 2021. Instead, it is a final chance to claim unpaid money from the third Economic Impact Payment (EIP3), originally issued in 2021. If the IRS believes you were owed part or all of the $1,400 stimulus in 2021 but didn’t receive it, they’re now issuing what’s called a “Recovery Rebate Credit.”
According to the IRS, nearly 1 million people are eligible for this rebate but haven’t claimed it because they didn’t file a 2021 tax return. Now, they have until April 15, 2025, to correct that.
Who Is Eligible for the $740 Stimulus Check?
Eligibility is determined based on your 2021 Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and household filing status. Here’s how it works:
Income Thresholds:
- Single filers: AGI of $75,000 or less
- Married couples filing jointly: AGI of $150,000 or less
- Heads of household: AGI of $112,500 or less
If your income was slightly above these limits, you may still receive a reduced amount, as the payment phases out gradually.
You May Also Qualify If:
- You didn’t receive the full $1,400 stimulus in 2021
- You had a new dependent (child born in 2021)
- You missed filing your 2021 tax return
- You had little or no income but weren’t required to file
Even if you received a partial stimulus payment before, you could be eligible for the remaining amount, bringing the total up to $740.
Why Is the IRS Sending These Payments Now?
The IRS has data showing that many people who were eligible for the full third-round stimulus never received it due to not filing their 2021 return. So, they’re now encouraging those individuals to file a return and claim their money.
This is especially important for low-income families, gig workers, and seniors, who might not typically be required to file taxes but are still entitled to the rebate.
Important: If you do not file your 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, you will permanently lose the right to claim this money.
Stimulus Checks: How to Claim the $740 Stimulus Check?
Step 1: File Your 2021 Tax Return
Even if you haven’t filed taxes in years, you can still file a 2021 tax return through:
- The IRS Free File program (irs.gov/freefile)
- A tax professional
- Local IRS assistance centers
Step 2: Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
On your 2021 return, specifically check the section that allows you to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. This is where you’ll state whether you received the full amount—and if not, request the difference.
Step 3: Wait for the Payment
Once the IRS processes your return and confirms your eligibility, you’ll receive the payment via direct deposit or mailed check.
Stimulus Checks: How to Check Your Eligibility or Payment Status
You can track your stimulus payment status through the IRS’s official tools:
- IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool: https://www.irs.gov/refunds
- Or call the IRS helpline at 1-800-829-1040
You’ll need:
- Your Social Security Number
- Your filing status
- Your refund amount (if any)
Is the $740 Stimulus Check Taxable?
No, it is not taxable. The IRS has confirmed that the Recovery Rebate Credit is not considered income, so it will not affect your:
- Social Security benefits
- SSI or SSDI eligibility
- Medicaid
- SNAP (food stamps)
This makes it a safe and beneficial one-time payment for vulnerable groups like seniors and low-income households.
What If I Already Filed But Didn’t Claim It?
If you filed your 2021 return but forgot to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, you can still receive it by filing an amended return using Form 1040-X.
Visit the IRS amended returns page for step-by-step guidance.
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FAQs on Stimulus Checks
Q1: I don’t normally file taxes. Can I still get this check?
Yes. If you had little or no income, you likely weren’t required to file. But to receive the $740 stimulus, you must file a 2021 tax return.
Q2: What if I don’t remember whether I got the $1,400 check in 2021?
You can log in to your IRS account at irs.gov/account to see your Economic Impact Payment history.
Q3: Will I lose my SNAP or SSI if I take this payment?
No. The $740 is not counted as income for benefit purposes.
Q4: How long does it take to receive the payment after filing?
It typically takes 6–8 weeks if filed electronically, and longer if mailed. Use the IRS tracking tools to follow up.
Q5: Can I still get the check if I moved or changed banks?
Yes. The IRS will send a paper check to your mailing address if direct deposit fails. Make sure your address is updated with the IRS.
