If you missed your $600 stimulus check in 2025, don’t worry — you might still be able to get it! Many people didn’t receive their payment because of wrong bank details, address changes, or not filing taxes. This guide will help you understand why you didn’t get it and how to claim your money in just 3 easy steps.
Why You Might Have Missed the $600 Stimulus Check
Many people were expecting a $600 check but didn’t see anything arrive. Some common reasons include:
- You moved and didn’t update your address.
- Your bank account information changed.
- You didn’t file your 2023 or 2024 tax return.
- The IRS couldn’t confirm your eligibility due to missing documents.
- You don’t normally file taxes and didn’t register through the IRS non-filer tool.
Even if you think you’re not eligible, it’s worth checking. Millions of people are in the same boat and still have time to fix it.
Step 1: File or Update Your 2024 Tax Return
The IRS uses your tax return to figure out if you qualify for a stimulus payment. If you haven’t filed yet, that’s your first step.
What to do:
- Go to the IRS website or visit a local tax center.
- File your 2024 tax return (even if you made little or no money).
- Make sure your name, address, and banking info are correct.
If you already filed but made a mistake, you can send a corrected return, also called an “amended return.”
Step 2: Use the IRS “Get My Payment” Tool
Once your tax return is done, you can track your payment using the IRS Get My Payment tool.
How it helps:
- Shows your payment status.
- Confirms whether your check was sent or is still being processed.
- Lets you know if more info is needed.
Visit: irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment
Step 3: Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit
If the IRS says your payment was sent but you never received it, don’t panic. You can still get the money by claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit when you file your tax return.
How it works:
- Enter the missing stimulus amount on the Recovery Rebate Credit section of your tax form.
- The IRS will add it to your tax refund or send it as a separate payment.
If you already filed and didn’t claim it, talk to a tax professional or contact the IRS for help.
Keep Your Info Updated
To avoid problems in the future:
- Always keep your address and bank info updated with the IRS.
- File taxes every year, even if you don’t earn much.
- Follow IRS news or sign up for alerts so you don’t miss out.
Missing out on your $600 stimulus check can be frustrating, but it’s not too late to fix it. By filing your 2024 tax return, using the IRS tracking tool, and claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit, you can still get the money you’re owed. Many Americans miss their payments for small reasons, but the good news is that the IRS gives everyone a fair chance to claim it. Don’t wait too long — make sure you follow these steps before the final deadline.
