Mistake Made On Non Filer Tool For Economic Impact Payment

[Ckrista]

I’m hoping someone can give me a quick answer about this:

when I used the non-filer tool to get the stimulus checks in 2020 and 202, I accidentally filed as single instead of head of household and I did not claim my dependents. I do have proof that I had my dependents then and now. I know that I’m technically eligible to ger the rebate credit. But do I need to file something different here? What do I do? Some things I read that I need to make an amend? But I didn’t actually file taxes. 

[xmasbaby0]

You are too late to amend 2020 for the 1st and 2nd stimulus checks.  The deadline for that was on May 17, 2024.

The only way to get the 3rd EIP is to file a 2021 return and use the recovery rebate credit now.  File it by April 15, 2025 or that one will be forfeited too.   If anyone else could  claim YOU as a dependent for 2021, you are not eligible.

Online preparation and e-filing for 2021, 2022, and  2023 is permanently closed.

Note:  The desktop software you need to prepare the prior year return must be installed/downloaded to a full PC or Mac.  It cannot be used on a mobile device.

To file a return for a prior tax year

 If you need to prepare a return for 2021, 2022, or 2023  you can purchase and download desktop software to do it, then print, sign,  and mail the return(s)

https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/

You may also want to explore purchasing the software from various retailers such as Amazon, Costco, Best Buy, Walmart, Sam’s, etc.

Remember to prepare your state return as well—if you live in a state that has a state income tax.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/state-taxes/contact-state-department-rev...

When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s.  Use a mailing service that will track it, such as certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.

Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses.  Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.

To use the paper form instead of software:

Here is the IRS 2021 Form 1040
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040--2021.pdf

or if you want bigger type use 1040SR for Seniors,
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s--2021.pdf

And 2021 Instructions
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040gi--2021.pdf

2021 Tax and EIC Tables
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/i1040tt--2021.pdf

Sch 1 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s1--2021.pdf
Sch 2 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s2--2021.pdf
Sch 3 : https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040s3--2021.pdf

[Ckrista]

you know I am fully aware about the closing for the 2020 file. I’m fully aware that I need to file a 2021 claim and that I have to pay file. That is nowhere near the realm of the question I asked. And I can’t believe I just read that entire thing wasting like dang time. I wish someone could just answer this question for me.

[xmasbaby0]

Trying to be helpful---but no good deed ever goes unpunished.

Short answer----if you actually filed some kind of a 2021 tax return, amend it before 4-15-2025

See this TurboTax support FAQ for amending a tax return -

https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/tax-return/amend-change-correct-return-a... 

Do not expect quick results from amending. It can take four months or more for the IRS to process an amended return.  

You can watch for information here:

https://www.irs.gov/Filing/Individuals/Amended-Returns-(Form-1040-X)/Wheres-My-Amended-Return-1