Stimulus Checks 3 - Dollar Finance

Between 2020 and 2021, the federal government sent out three rounds of stimulus checks to help Americans during the pandemic. But not everyone who was eligible actually received those payments — and some received less than they were owed.

If you were missing a payment or got a smaller amount than expected, you may have had a chance to claim that money through your tax return. However, as of 2025, those deadlines have now passed.

Here’s what you need to know now — including how to know what you received and where to look for other financial help if you’re still struggling.

How Stimulus Checks Were Sent

Originally, stimulus payments (officially called Economic Impact Payments) were issued in three ways:

Direct deposit to the bank account on file with the IRS
Paper check sent by mail
Prepaid debit card, known as an EIP Card

If you filed taxes and provided your bank info, your payments should’ve hit your account electronically. If not, you may have received a check or debit card in the mail.

Missed a Payment? Here’s What Likely Happened

If you met the eligibility requirements but didn’t get your stimulus payment, there were a few possible explanations:

Your income or filing status changed
You didn’t file a tax return (even though it was required to claim the credit)
The IRS didn’t have your direct deposit or mailing info
You were eligible but didn’t know you had to file a Recovery Rebate Credit form

Many people were able to claim their missing stimulus funds by filing a tax return for 2020 or 2021 and including Form 1040 or 1040-SR with the Recovery Rebate Credit.

But here’s the important update:

2020 payments (1st and 2nd rounds): Deadline to claim was May 17, 2024
2021 payment (3rd round): Deadline to claim was April 15, 2025

If you didn’t file by those dates, you can no longer claim these payments through the IRS.

Need to Confirm What You Received?

Even though you can’t file for unclaimed stimulus payments anymore, it’s still a good idea to check your records. The IRS sent out letters after each payment — look for:

Notice 1444 (1st payment)
Notice 1444-B (2nd payment)
Notice 1444-C (3rd payment)

You can also create or log in to your account at IRS.gov to view payment history and verify what you received.

Still Need Help? Monthly Cash Assistance Programs Can Help

If you’ve already received your stimulus checks but are still facing financial hardship, don’t worry — help may still be available.

Programs like TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) provide monthly cash support, along with job training and help paying for basic needs. TANF is designed for families with extremely low income and is available in every state.

When approved, you’ll usually receive an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card, which works like a debit card. It can be used for most everyday purchases (just not for alcohol, gambling, or adult entertainment).