Many Americans don’t know that over $3 billion in stimulus money is still waiting to be claimed. Yes, that’s right! This money was part of earlier government support programs meant to help people during hard times like COVID-19. But not everyone received it. You might still be able to get your share if you qualify. Here’s how to find out.
Why Is There So Much Stimulus Money Left?
When the government gave out stimulus checks, not everyone got theirs. Some people didn’t file their taxes, moved homes, or simply missed the updates. Now, that money is sitting unclaimed, and the IRS is encouraging people to check their eligibility before time runs out.
Who Might Still Qualify for This Money?
You may qualify if:
- You didn’t file taxes in previous years but had low income.
- You moved homes and missed mail from the IRS.
- You were not aware you were eligible before.
- You didn’t use the IRS’s online tools to claim the checks.
- You didn’t receive one or more rounds of previous stimulus payments.
How to Check If You Qualify for Unclaimed Stimulus
To find out if you can still get your stimulus money:
- Visit the IRS Website: Go to irs.gov and look for the “Recovery Rebate Credit” section.
- Use the Free Filing Tool: If you didn’t earn much money, you can still file a simple return for free.
- Claim Missed Payments: You can ask for past payments using the “Recovery Rebate Credit” when filing taxes.
- Act Before the Deadline: The IRS usually allows three years to claim refunds. Some deadlines may come soon, so check now!
What If You Don’t Usually File Taxes?
If you don’t normally file taxes because your income is low or you rely on Social Security, you might still qualify. You can use IRS Free File or get help from local tax assistance centers to file and claim your refund.
Beware of Scams
Some scammers may try to fool people with fake stimulus payment offers. Always use official websites like irs.gov and never share your personal information over phone calls or unknown emails.
Don’t Leave Your Money Behind
There’s still time to get your stimulus refund, but you must act fast. Whether you’re a student, a gig worker, or a retiree, you could be eligible. Filing taxes might seem boring, but it could bring you hundreds or even thousands of dollars back. Always check the official IRS site for real and updated information.
