During the pandemic, three rounds of stimulus checks helped millions of Americans manage financial hardships, but according to a recent government report, up to 10 million people still haven’t claimed their payments.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) revealed that while 165 million Americans were eligible for these payments—totaling $931 billion—the IRS faced challenges in reaching certain groups, including very low-income individuals and seniors who aren’t required to file taxes. As a result, many of these people may have missed out on receiving their stimulus checks.
10 Million Americans Still Eligible for Stimulus Checks — Act Now to Claim Before Time Runs Out
The IRS relied heavily on tax returns to determine eligibility and distribute payments, but some groups—like those with lower incomes, limited internet access, or those experiencing homelessness—were harder to reach.
To address this, the IRS is now sending letters to over 9 million families who are potentially eligible for these payments, including the Child Tax Credit, but haven’t yet claimed them by filing a 2021 tax return. The good news is that there is still time to claim these benefits.
The IRS has extended the deadline for people with little or no income, who are not required to file taxes, to submit a simplified tax return by November 15 to receive their payments. Additionally, parents who missed out on last year’s expanded Child Tax Credit have until November 15 to claim it through the GetCTC.org website.
Those required to file taxes due to their income and who missed the April 15 deadline have until October 17 to submit their 2021 tax returns if they requested an extension.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know hasn’t yet received their stimulus checks or the expanded Child Tax Credit, it’s crucial to act quickly. With deadlines approaching, now is the time to file a simplified tax return and claim the benefits you are entitled to. Don’t miss this final opportunity to receive financial support that could make a significant difference.
FAQs
Who is still eligible for unclaimed stimulus checks?
Up to 10 million Americans, particularly low-income individuals and seniors who aren’t required to file taxes, may still be eligible for unclaimed stimulus payments.
How can I claim my missing stimulus checks?
You can claim your missing stimulus payment by filing a simplified tax return through the IRS website for “Economic Impact Payments” before November 15.
What is the deadline to claim the Child Tax Credit?
Parents who missed out on the expanded Child Tax Credit in 2021 have until November 15 to claim it via the GetCTC.org website.
What is the deadline for filing 2021 tax returns if I requested an extension?
If you requested an extension from the IRS, the deadline to file your 2021 tax return and claim any missing stimulus payments is October 17.
What should I do if I have little or no income and missed my stimulus payment?
Individuals with little or no income who missed their stimulus payment have until November 15 to complete a simplified tax return to receive their payment.
Reference
Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on unclaimed stimulus payments.
