The only way to get the missing money from the stimulus payments is to file the tax returns. Right now, the only the first two stimulus payments can be claimed for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
The third stimulus payment that is missing will be claimed on the 2021 tax return filed in the spring of 2022.
To report that the stimulus payments are missing, follow these steps:
- Go to the search box and enter stimulus. Click the Jump to link.
- Answer Yes.
- At the next screen, Let's double-check the amount you received, answer No to edit the first-round and second-round amounts.
- If no stimulus amount was received, enter 0. An amount must be entered in each box. When finished, click Continue.
For more information about claiming dependents, see:
Who can I claim as my dependent?
What does "financially support another person" mean?
For more information about calculating the stimulus payments, which each had their own rules, see:
The first stimulus payment was for up to $1,200 for each taxpayer and spouse, $500 for each dependent.
The second stimulus payment was for up to $600 each.
The third stimulus payment was for up to $1,400 each.
