Thousands of Massachusetts residents may be entitled to a share of $1 billion in unclaimed stimulus payments. Due to filing errors, missing information, or unprocessed claims, many individuals and families have yet to receive the stimulus funds they are owed. If you live in Massachusetts, you could be eligible for a missed payment—here’s how to check your status and claim your cash.
Background on the Unclaimed Stimulus Payments
Over the past few years, federal and state stimulus programs have provided relief payments to eligible residents. However, many payments remain unclaimed due to tax filing issues, banking errors, or undelivered checks. The Massachusetts Department of Revenue and the IRS have identified a total of $1 billion in unclaimed funds and are urging residents to verify their eligibility.
How Much Could You Receive?
The amount of unclaimed stimulus money varies depending on individual eligibility, past payments, and tax filing history. Some residents may be entitled to full stimulus checks, while others could receive partial payments or tax credits.
Eligibility Criteria
To determine if you qualify for unclaimed stimulus payments, check the following criteria:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must be a resident of Massachusetts during the stimulus distribution period. |
| Tax Filing Status | Must have filed (or be eligible to file) a tax return for the qualifying year. |
| Income Limits | Single filers: Must earn under $75,000 annually for full payment. |
| Joint filers: Combined income must be under $150,000. | |
| Missed or Unprocessed Payments | Individuals who did not receive previous federal or state stimulus payments may qualify. |
| Banking or Address Errors | Those who changed their bank account or mailing address may have had payments returned. |
| Dependent Status | Parents or guardians who did not receive dependent stimulus payments may still be eligible. |
These criteria help determine whether you are owed money and how to claim it.
How to Claim Your Unclaimed Stimulus Payment
Eligible Massachusetts residents can take the following steps to claim their missing funds:
- Check IRS and State Websites – Visit the IRS Get My Payment tool and the Massachusetts Department of Revenue website to see if you have unclaimed payments.
- File a Tax Return (If Required) – If you did not file a tax return for the applicable year, you may still be eligible by submitting a late return.
- Update Banking or Address Information – Ensure that your direct deposit and mailing details are up to date to avoid further delays.
- Request a Payment Trace – If you believe your check was sent but never received, request an official IRS payment trace.
- Apply for Recovery Rebate Credit – If you were eligible but did not receive a stimulus payment, you can claim it as a credit when filing your taxes.
Payment Distribution Timeline
Unclaimed payments are expected to be processed throughout 2025, with priority given to those who file updated tax returns and verify their eligibility early. Payments will be made via direct deposit or mailed checks, depending on IRS and state records.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if I have an unclaimed stimulus payment?
You can check using the IRS Get My Payment tool or visit the Massachusetts Department of Revenue website to verify your status.
2. What should I do if I never received my stimulus check?
If you believe you are owed money, file a tax return (if applicable), check your banking information, and request a payment trace from the IRS.
3. Can I still claim my stimulus payment if I didn’t file taxes?
Yes! Many individuals who did not file taxes may still be eligible by submitting a late return or applying for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
4. How will my unclaimed stimulus payment be sent?
Payments will be made via direct deposit or mailed checks, depending on your tax records and payment history.
5. Is there a deadline to claim my unclaimed stimulus payment?
Yes, the IRS and the Massachusetts Department of Revenue will set a final deadline, expected to be in late 2025. It is best to act quickly to ensure you receive your funds.
