The IRS has revealed that approximately 1.1 million taxpayers still have unclaimed refunds from their 2021 tax returns, totaling over $1 billion. However, the deadline to file and claim these refunds is fast approaching—15 April 2025 is the last day to submit your 2021 tax return and secure the money you may be owed.
How Much Could You Be Owed?
The median refund for 2021 tax returns is estimated at $781. However, this figure does not include potential stimulus payments from the final round of COVID-era relief, which could be claimed through the Recovery Rebate Credit. If you qualify for this credit, you could receive up to $1,400 per person.
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Even if you had little to no income in 2021, you may still be eligible for a refund—especially if you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). For some lower-income families, this credit was worth as much as $6,728, told CNBC.
Who Qualifies for the Unclaimed Stimulus Payment?
If you did not receive the third round of stimulus payments, you might still be entitled to claim it. The eligibility is based on your 2021 income:
- Single filers earning up to $75,000 qualify for the full $1,400.
- Married couples filing jointly could receive $2,800 if their combined income is under $150,000.
- Dependents (of any age) also qualify for $1,400 each.
- The payments gradually phase out for individuals earning above $80,000 and couples making over $160,000.
“The IRS continues to work hard to make improvements and help taxpayers,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “These payments are an example of our commitment to go the extra mile for taxpayers.”
How to Claim Your Money
Filing a 2021 tax return before 15 April 2025 is the key to claiming your refund or stimulus payment. If you’ve already filed but didn’t claim the Recovery Rebate Credit, the IRS has been automatically issuing payments to those who qualify.
If you’ve lost your 2021 tax documents, there are ways to recover them:
- Check your IRS online account at IRS.gov for wage and income transcripts.
- Request missing tax forms (W-2s, 1099s) from employers or financial institutions.
- Order a tax transcript by mail or by calling 800-908-9946.
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What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
After 15 April 2025, any unclaimed refunds become the property of the U.S. Treasury, meaning the government keeps the money, and you lose any chance to recover it. This is especially critical for low- and middle-income earners who may also qualify for additional tax credits like the EITC.
Which States Have the Most Unclaimed Refunds?
Certain states have more unclaimed refunds than others. The top four states with the highest number of eligible taxpayers are:
- California: 116,300 people owed refunds, with a median amount of $600.
- Texas: 102,200 unclaimed refunds, averaging $810.
- New York: 73,000 unclaimed refunds, with a median of $995.
- Florida: 69,800 residents potentially eligible for a refund, averaging $732.
A full state-by-state breakdown is available on the IRS website.
Act Now—Don’t Let Your Money Slip Away
Time is running out to claim refunds and stimulus payments that could make a significant difference in your finances. If you haven’t filed your 2021 tax return, take action before 15 April 2025. Filing is easier than you think, and the rewards could be significant.
To check your eligibility and start the filing process, visit IRS.gov today.
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