Claiming Stimulus Checks
Published on January 05, 2024
Updated on April 21, 2025
Reviewed by
Clark Stott has been with Expat Tax Online since 2015. Being a dual national based in the UK, Clark has unique experience helping US citizens (and Accidental Americans) become tax compliant via the Streamlined Tax Amnesty program. Clark likes to help Americans in the UK keep their tax situations as simple as possible to avoid harsh IRS treatment.
Table of Contents
Can Americans abroad claim stimulus checks in 2025?
Yes, but only the missed payment for the third Stimulus check issued last March 2021. The deadline to claim Stimulus payments one and two has now passed. Even if you reside outside the United States as long as you’re eligible for it, you can claim the payment.
The stimulus check is a key component of economic relief efforts. It has been a lifeline for many citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There were three main federal stimulus payments:
- March of 2020: US$1,200 per adult (US$500 per child)
- December of 2020: US$600 per adult (US$600 per child)
- March 2021: US$1,400 per adult (US$1,400 per dependent)
If you missed claiming the 2021 stimulus check, you still have the chance to claim it under the Recovery Rebate Credit. The deadline is April 15, 2025.
What if I’ve made a claim, but the payment wasn’t given?
You can check the payment status of the check on the IRS website under “Get My Payment” to see if your payment was issued, how it was sent, or if there are any issues. Additionally, you can call the IRS at +1 (800) 829-1040.
Am I still eligible to claim the stimulus check?
Basically, if you were eligible for the third stimulus payment in 2021 and have filed your 2021 tax return, you can still claim the check. Here are the eligibility criteria to qualify for the 3rd stimulus check:
- You are a US citizen or Green Card holder. Dual citizens may still be eligible for the partial payment amount, depending on their residency status.
- You hold a valid Social Security Number (SSN). If you’re married and filing jointly, at least on of you should have a valid SSN.
- You have an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) under US$75,000. For couples filing jointly, the AGI should be under US$150,000.
- You have a non-dependency status or are not a dependent of another taxpayer on their tax return.
What is the Recovery Rebate Credit?
The Recovery Rebate Credit is a pathway for Americans to claim past owed stimulus payments on their tax returns. US citizens who didn’t receive stimulus payments or received less than the full amount they qualify for can benefit from this credit.
Qualifying individuals are advised to file a federal tax return even if they typically don’t owe taxes to maximize benefits like stimulus checks.
How can I claim my missed stimulus payment?
Here is the process for claiming stimulus payments that were missed or not received:
- Check for missed payments: You can review your past transactions and returns with the IRS to see which stimulus check you haven’t yet received.
- File your tax return: Particularly your 2021 federal tax return.
These steps can significantly increase your chances of successfully claiming your stimulus payment without undue hassle or delay.
Why use the IRS Streamlined Tax Amnesty Program?
It’s for American citizens that didn’t know they had to file U.S. tax returns each year, and have therefore fallen behind. Some more than 30 years! With the IRS Streamlined Procedure, say goodbye to overdue tax returns, late fees, and penalties.
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Is filing a US tax return required to get stimulus payments?
Yes, the IRS uses your tax return information to determine if you qualify for the payments. Not filing a return for the previous year could mean missing out on these funds.
Good news! The IRS allows filing late tax returns up to three years after the original due date, so you have until April 15, 2025, to file or amend your 2021 return.
How can I update my foreign address with the IRS?
You can File Form 8822, “Change of Address,” to update your mailing information. Ensuring the IRS has your correct international address can make receiving payments smoother.
Additionally, updating your international banking information with the IRS is a good idea to prevent any payment delays. The IRS offers an array of online tools that can assist you with updating crucial information.
How can I receive my checks abroad?
Different payment methods exist for receiving your stimulus payment as a US expat. The IRS typically uses direct deposit information from your most recent tax return to send your stimulus payment. This is the quickest and easiest option.
But, if direct deposit isn’t an option, a paper check will be mailed to the latest address on file, though international mail can add significant delays, and international wire transfers, while possible, might incur fees.
What can I do if I’m behind on tax filings?
The first step is to promptly catch up on any overdue returns. Adhering to filing deadlines is critical to claiming stimulus checks punctually. Missing these dates can result in penalties or delays when receiving any entitled payments.
But there are special provisions and extensions for those residing outside the US. Still, failing to file for the previous year could mean missing out on these financial opportunities.
What are some common problems for expats regarding stimulus checks?
- IRS lacks updated address or bank information: Many US citizens missed updating their banking and mailing details when they moved abroad, did not have direct deposit information on file, and have not received tax refunds in recent years.
- Non-filers didn’t register in time: Some expats, especially retirees or low-income earners, do not file US tax returns due to the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) or low income, but they miss out on tax-favored benefits like the stimulus checks and even the Additional Child Tax Credit.
For complex tax situations, seeking advice from a tax professional is advisable. They can provide tailored guidance, ensuring you take full advantage of the benefits available to you.
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