Tax Tips & Updates
January 14, 2025

IRS to Send Out $2.4 Billion in Unclaimed Tax Credits: How to Know If You’re Eligible

The IRS announced last month that it will be sending approximately $2.4 billion in unclaimed credits and stimulus money, which could benefit many taxpayers who didn’t receive their full entitlements. This unprecedented effort aims to distribute leftover funds from the 2021 tax year and previous stimulus programs to eligible individuals.

Are You Missing Out on Unclaimed IRS Tax Credits?

The primary goal is to ensure that all eligible taxpayers receive the financial support they are entitled to, particularly those who may have missed out on payments due to incorrect information or unfiled taxes. This initiative includes unclaimed 2021 tax credits and prior stimulus payments that were not disbursed.

Who Is Eligible?

Millions of taxpayers across the country did not claim stimulus payments or tax credits they were entitled to during the 2021 tax year. This includes:

  • Third Stimulus Payments: Part of the American Rescue Plan, these payments were sent out in 2021 but went unclaimed by many who didn’t file their taxes.
  • Child Tax Credit (CTC): Many families missed out on expanded child tax credits, which increased to $3,600 per qualifying child under age 6 and $3,000 for children aged 6–17.
  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Designed to benefit lower-income workers, the EITC was significantly expanded in 2021, offering larger refunds to eligible individuals.

How to Determine If You Qualify

The IRS encourages taxpayers to review their records and ensure they’ve accounted for all credits. Those who believe they qualify but did not receive payments should:

  1. File a Missed Return: If you haven’t filed your 2021 return, it’s not too late to do so. This is essential to trigger the release of unclaimed funds.
  2. Verify Your Past Return: If you have files, check your 2021 tax return to ensure all credits were claimed.
  3. Update Information: The IRS will use bank account and address information from the taxpayer’s 2023 tax return to route the payments. Make sure the IRS has your latest address and banking details.

What’s Next?

The IRS is now issuing letters to notify individuals of unclaimed credits and funds. However, the deadline to claim them is rapidly approaching, with many cases requiring action by mid-April 2025. Be cautious of scams, as the IRS will never request sensitive information via email or phone. 

Payments will be directly deposited to the bank account listed on the taxpayer’s 2023 return or sent by mail as a check. The money should arrive by late January 2025. The IRS stated that payments vary depending on several factors, but the maximum is $1,400 per individual.

Stay Informed

We’re committed to keeping you informed about important IRS and tax updates. If you believe you may be eligible for these unclaimed funds or need assistance reviewing your tax situation, please contact us using the FREE CONSULT button below. Our team is here to help ensure that you receive any benefits you are entitled to and provide guidance on maximizing your tax returns.

GET A FREE CONSULT
This is great info. Share it...

Client Reviews

Find out what Wendroff & Associates, CPA
can do for your business.