IRS to Distribute $2.4 Billion in Unclaimed Stimulus Payments to Eligible Taxpayers

One million Americans will receive up to $1,400 automatically after failing to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit.

The IRS identified approximately one million taxpayers who were eligible for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit but did not claim it on their tax returns.
Automatic payments of up to $1,400 per person will be distributed by late January 2025 via direct deposit or paper checks, with no action required from eligible recipients.
The payments are intended for individuals who left the Recovery Rebate Credit field blank or entered $0 on their 2021 tax returns despite being eligible.
Taxpayers who have not yet filed their 2021 tax returns can still claim the credit by submitting their returns by April 15, 2025.
The total amount of payments being distributed is estimated at $2.4 billion, part of the IRS's effort to ensure eligible taxpayers receive pandemic-related benefits.