GIO

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Claiming the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit

Individuals who did not receive the third stimulus check can claim the money as a Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax return. This does require you to file a 2021 return even if you don't normally file a tax return. The deadline for filing the 2021 return to get the Recovery Rebate Credit is April 15, 2025.

It is too late to file the 2021 tax return electronically, but you can download and print a paper 2021 1040 form at https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040--2021.pdf

There is also a 2021 1040-SR form for seniors. It is exactly the same as the 1040 form, except the print is larger for ease of reading: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s--2021.pdf

Line 30 is where you claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. Instructions for this line are in the Instruction Booklet at page 57: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040gi--2021.pdf#page=57

The mailing address for returning the form is listed on the back page of the instructions: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040gi--2021.pdf#page=114

If you need assistance filing your return, there is help available for disabled or elderly persons, or if you meet certain other qualifications, through the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers

Other government assistance is available

In addition to the stimulus checks, there are other forms of government assistance you may be eligible for. To see what government benefits are available, whether you qualify for them, and how to apply, go to the Government Benefits page at USA.gov: https://www.usa.gov/benefits

I hope this information is helpful. If this is not what you need, or if there is any other assistance we can provide, please let us know.

Bobby Griffith
Lead Government Information Reference Associate
Sycamore Library
University of North Texas Libraries

bobby.griffith@unt.edu