Eligible U.S. citizens still have time to claim their IRS tax refund and receive extra income in 2025. Every year, the IRS issues tax refunds to millions of Americans, but many people fail to claim their payments, leaving billions of dollars unclaimed.
If you haven’t received your refund, there is still time to check your eligibility and take the necessary steps to claim it. The deadline to file for a past-due refund is April 15, 2025, so it’s important to act before time runs out.
Who Can Still Claim an IRS Tax Refund in 2025?
The IRS allows taxpayers to claim refunds from previous years if they missed filing a tax return. Many eligible individuals failed to file their 2021 tax return, meaning they still have time to claim their refund in 2025.
Key points about this IRS refund:
Deadline to claim: April 15, 2025
Eligibility: Must have unclaimed refunds from previous tax years
Maximum refund amount: Up to $1,400
How to receive payment: Direct deposit or mailed check
How to Claim Your 2021 Tax Refund in 2025
To get your IRS tax refund from 2021, you must file a tax return for that year before the April 15, 2025 deadline.
Steps to Claim Your Refund:
- Check Your Eligibility
- If you didn’t file a 2021 tax return, you may still be eligible for a refund.
- Use the IRS website to check if you have unclaimed refunds.
- File Your 2021 Tax Return
- You must submit a tax return for 2021, even if you had little or no income.
- Use tax software, hire a professional, or complete IRS Form 1040 manually.
- Verify Direct Deposit Information
- The IRS deposits refunds directly into your bank account.
- Ensure your bank details are correct to avoid delays.
- Submit Before the April 15, 2025 Deadline
- Refunds expire if not claimed within three years of the filing deadline.
- Missing this deadline means losing the refund permanently.
Is This Refund Separate from the 2024 Tax Season?
Yes. This $1 billion IRS refund is separate from the current 2024 tax refund payments. It applies to those who did not file their 2021 tax returns on time.
If you are eligible, you could receive:
- Your 2021 tax refund (if unclaimed)
- Your 2024 tax refund (if you filed this year)
This means you may receive two different IRS refunds in 2025 if both payments apply to you.
Can I Receive This IRS Refund If I Get Social Security?
Yes. Receiving Social Security benefits does not affect your eligibility for an IRS tax refund. These payments are completely separate and can be deposited in the same month without any issues.
You can receive both Social Security and an IRS tax refund
Refunds are not considered Social Security income and won’t reduce benefits
SSI, SSDI, and retirement beneficiaries can still qualify for past refunds
FAQs:
Who qualifies for this refund?
Any U.S. citizen who did not file a 2021 tax return but was eligible for a refund.
What is the deadline to claim my refund?
The final deadline is April 15, 2025. After that, the refund cannot be claimed.
How much can I receive?
Refund amounts vary, but some taxpayers may receive up to $1,400.
