Which Benefits Are You Eligible to Receive?

0
37
Which Benefits Are You Eligible to Receive?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has revealed that more than a million Americans have yet to claim their pandemic relief stimulus payments. These funds are accessible via the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) for individuals who did not receive the full Economic Impact Payments (EIP) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Deadline for Claiming Recovery Rebate Credit

Taxpayers who haven’t filed their 2021 tax returns can still claim their stimulus payments. The IRS has set April 15 as the ultimate deadline for submitting a 2021 tax return to access these funds.

Since December 2024, the IRS has been distributing payments to those who either left the Recovery Rebate Credit section blank on their 2021 returns or mistakenly reported $0 without knowing they were eligible. Eligible individuals can receive up to $1,400 per person, which can be delivered as either a direct deposit or a paper check.

Unclaimed Refunds in Ohio

The IRS has also pointed out that numerous taxpayers have unclaimed tax refunds from the 2021 tax year. This includes nearly 40,000 residents of Ohio, who could be eligible for refunds. Although the amount varies based on individual tax circumstances, the average unclaimed refund in Ohio is approximately $762.

Alaska’s Upcoming Stimulus Payment

In addition to the IRS stimulus payments, residents of Alaska may qualify for an annual payment from the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) program. The PFD is funded through the state’s revenue generated from natural resources, including oil and gas.

For the year 2025, the PFD amount is set at $1,702, a notable increase from the previous year’s $1,312. Residents can apply for this dividend between January 1 and March 31 by submitting their applications through the PFD online portal (pfd.alaska.gov) or via mail.

How to Claim the Payments

Eligible individuals should act swiftly to claim their stimulus payments and refunds:

  • For the IRS stimulus check: File a 2021 tax return before April 15, 2025, to receive up to $1,400.
  • For Ohio tax refunds: Eligible taxpayers should verify their 2021 tax status to recover their unclaimed refund.
  • For Alaska’s PFD: Residents need to apply by March 31, 2025, to avail the $1,702 payment.

With deadlines approaching, taxpayers should take the necessary steps to secure any financial assistance they are entitled to.

Reference Article