If you didn’t claim your tax refund or 2021 stimulus payment, you only have a short time left to act. The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) has confirmed that April 15, 2025, is the final deadline to claim your refund for the 2021 tax year. If you don’t file your return by then, you will lose your money permanently. Let’s look at everything you need to know before the deadline.
Why April 15, 2025, Is the Last Day to Claim a 2021 Refund
By law, the IRS gives people three years to file a tax return and claim any refunds. After that, the money goes to the U.S. Treasury and can’t be claimed anymore. For the 2021 tax year, the original filing deadline was April 18, 2022, which means the final date to file and get a refund should be April 18, 2025.
However, due to calendar adjustments, the IRS has officially set April 15, 2025, as the last date. So, there are only a few hours left to act if you haven’t filed your 2021 return yet.
What About 2021 Stimulus Checks?
Many people also missed their third stimulus payment, worth up to $1,400 per person, during the pandemic. If you didn’t receive it or only received part of it, you can still claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2021 tax return.
In late 2024, the IRS automatically issued payments to about 1 million taxpayers who had not claimed the credit. But if you didn’t get yours, you still need to file your return to claim it. The IRS has warned people repeatedly — especially non-filers and low-income individuals — to act fast.
Do You Qualify for the Refund or Stimulus Payment?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or resident in 2021
- Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return
- Have earned below the income limit (e.g., under $75,000 for single individuals)
People who don’t normally file taxes, such as those with low income, can still claim by using the IRS Non-Filers Tool.
However, if you owe the government (like past taxes or child support), your refund may be reduced or withheld. Also, if you haven’t filed for 2022 or 2023, your 2021 refund could be delayed.
What Documents Do You Need to File?
To claim your 2021 tax refund or Recovery Rebate Credit, you need to file a 2021 tax return. The IRS suggests filing electronically and using direct deposit to get your money faster.
You’ll need:
- W-2, 1099, 1098, or 5498 forms (ask your employer or bank if you don’t have them)
- If you made a mistake on a past return, use Form 1040-X to amend it
You can also use tools like Get Transcript Online to access your income records or call 800-908-9946 to receive your tax transcript by mail.
How Much Can You Get?
The average refund for 2021 is around $781, but it can vary depending on your income and withholdings. Some people may receive more if they qualify for the full stimulus credit.
Time is running out. If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return yet, April 15, 2025, is your last chance to claim any refunds or stimulus payments. Don’t let your money go to the U.S. Treasury. File your return, claim your refund or credit, and use online tools to speed up the process. If you’re eligible and don’t act in time, that money will be gone forever.
