Lots of people are still waiting for stimulus money that should have arrived by June 2025. Some checks may have been missed because of old tax records, address errors, or never being claimed. This guide tells you exactly how you can check if you’re owed money—and how to claim it in simple steps.
Why You Might Be Missing a Stimulus Check
There are a few reasons:
- You didn’t file your 2021 tax return and missed the Recovery Rebate Credit .
- Your address or bank details changed, so the IRS couldn’t send it .
- You never received it even though you’re eligible.
If any of these happened, you might still be able to claim or appeal the money.
How Much Time Do You Have?
- The deadline to file a 2021 return and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025 .
- After this date, the IRS will not accept more claims, and you lose the right to get the money.
So it’s really important to act quickly if you haven’t already.
Step-by-Step Guide to Claim or Appeal
1. Check Your Payment Status
- Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund” or “Get My Payment” tool to see if the check was issued .
- Your IRS online account or past notices (Letters 1444, 1444-B, 1444-C) can help track payments.
2. File or Amend Your 2021 Tax Return
- If you didn’t file in 2021, submit your return by April 15, 2025, and add the Recovery Rebate Credit .
- If you filed but missed the credit, file an amended return (Form 1040-X) correcting mistakes .
3. Initiate a Payment Trace
- If IRS records show a check was sent but you never got it, file Form 3911 or call 800‑919‑9835 to trace it .
- This helps the IRS check if the check got lost or returned.
4. Fix Errors & Confirm Mailing Info
- Update your address using Form 8822, written statement, or by updating your tax return.
- If a bank account was closed, funds are sent via mail instead.
5. Get Help for Complex Cases
- If you can’t solve it alone, contact IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service or call the IRS helpline .
- The Advocate Service helps when you’re facing delays or confusion.

Quick Tips to Avoid Problems
- File your taxes on time—even if your income was low
- Check your status online and save any IRS notices
- Keep your address and bank info updated
- Be patient—traces and amendments can take weeks
- Beware of scams—IRS will never text or call asking for personal info
Why It’s Worth It
The average stimulus check you might still be owed is up to $1,400 per person . For many, that money can help cover rent, food, or bills. It’s money meant to help you through tough times—so don’t miss your chance.
If you’ve missed a stimulus check from June 2025, you still may be able to claim it by taking action before June 15, 2025. Use IRS tools to check your status, file or amend your tax return, update your address, and possibly initiate a payment trace. If you’re stuck, ask for help from the Taxpayer Advocate or IRS helpline. It’s your right to get help—so don’t wait. Every dollar counts, and this could bring real relief to your household.
FAQs
- When is the deadline to claim?
April 15, 2025 is the final date to file or amend your 2021 tax return. - Can I check if I got paid?
Yes—use IRS “Where’s My Refund” or “Get My Payment” tools. - What if my check was lost or mailed wrong?
File Form 3911 or call 800‑919‑9835 to trace it. - How do I update my address or bank info?
Use IRS Form 8822 or update via a mailed statement or tax return. - Who can help me if I’m stuck?
The IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service is available for complex problems.