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The IRS has sent out letters alerting nine million households that they are eligible for $1,400 stimulus checks for individuals and $2,800 checks to couples.
Eligible recipients mostly include taxpayers who don't need to file federal income tax returns because they don't earn enough to warrant one, and because of that, didn't get one or more of the original stimulus checks. Those recipients include single filers making less than $12,550 ($14,250 for those older than 65), and couples making less than $25,100 ($27,000 for those older than 65). This mostly affects those receiving Social Security but many others might be eligible as well.
Those who are could see a nice amount of direct payments. Along with the stimulus checks for individuals and couples, there is also another $1,400 for dependents, plus other benefits like the Child Tax Credit, which is worth up to $3,600 per child, child and dependent care credits up to $8,000, and the Earned Income Tax Credit, which is worth up to $7,000.
In a press release, IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig explained, "We don't want people to overlook these tax credits, and the letters will remind people of their potential eligibility and steps they can take." He added, "We encourage people who haven't filed a tax return yet for 2021 to review these options. Even if they aren't required to file a tax return, they may still qualify for several important credits."
If you think you are eligible and haven't yet filed a 2021 income tax return, head to ChildTaxCredit.gov to learn more and to potentially file a simple tax return to claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, which covers any stimulus payments you missed as well as the Child Tax Credit. Even if you don't have kids, the site's Get Your Child Tax Credit option can still give you the right solution for what you need to do.
Meanwhile, if you have gotten your federal payments, you might still be eligible for more direct payments from your state.