Time’s Running Out: Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check from 2021 Now!

# Time is Running Out: Claim Your $1,400 Stimulus Check Before It’s Too Late

The clock is ticking for thousands of Missouri residents who may still be eligible for a $1,400 stimulus check from 2021. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set a strict deadline, and if you haven’t claimed your payment yet, now is the time to act. This money is part of the federal government’s COVID-19 relief efforts, and missing the deadline could mean leaving cash on the table.

Here’s what you need to know to ensure you don’t miss out:

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## **What Is the $1,400 Stimulus Check?**
The $1,400 payment was part of the American Rescue Plan Act, signed into law in March 2021. It was designed to provide financial relief to individuals and families struggling during the pandemic. While millions of Americans received their payments automatically, some people may have missed out due to incomplete IRS records or other issues.

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## **Who Is Eligible?**
If you didn’t receive your payment in 2021, you might still qualify if:
- You didn’t file a 2020 or 2021 tax return.
- You earned less than the income threshold ($75,000 for individuals, $112,500 for heads of household, or $150,000 for married couples filing jointly).
- You have dependents who weren’t claimed on your tax return.
- You experienced a significant life change, such as having a child or losing income.

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## **How to Claim Your Payment**
To claim your $1,400 stimulus check, you’ll need to file a 2021 tax return, even if you don’t typically file taxes. Here’s how:
1. **Gather Your Documents**: Collect your W-2s, 1099s, or other income statements.
2. **File a 2021 Tax Return**: Use the IRS Free File tool or consult a tax professional.
3. **Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit**: This credit allows you to claim any missing stimulus payments.

The deadline to file your 2021 tax return and claim the payment is **May 17, 2024**.

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## **Why Some People Haven’t Received Their Payment**
Many individuals who are still eligible for the $1,400 check fell through the cracks because:
- They didn’t file taxes in 2020 or 2021.
- The IRS didn’t have their updated address or banking information.
- They were unaware of the payment or didn’t realize they needed to take action.

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## **Don’t Wait—Act Now**
If you believe you’re eligible for the $1,400 stimulus check, don’t delay. The IRS has made it clear that this is the final opportunity to claim the payment. Once the deadline passes, the money will no longer be available.

For more information, visit the [IRS website](https://www.irs.gov/) or contact a tax professional.

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# **What Do You Think?**
- Should the government extend the deadline for claiming stimulus checks?
- Do you think the $1,400 payment was enough to help people during the pandemic?
- Should there be another round of stimulus payments in 2024?
- What’s the biggest financial challenge you’re facing right now?
- Is it fair for people who didn’t file taxes to still receive stimulus payments?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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