OHIO — Ohio taxpayers could soon see extra cash as the IRS begins issuing automatic “special payments” of up to $1,400 to approximately 1 million eligible taxpayers nationwide.
The payments, which target individuals who did not claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, will start going out later this month, the agency announced last week.
Who Is Eligible?
The payments are designed for individuals who were eligible for the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit but failed to claim it on their tax returns for that year.
This refundable tax credit was created to assist people who did not receive one or more economic impact payments — also known as stimulus checks — during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eligible taxpayers in Ohio can receive up to $1,400, although the amount may vary based on individual circumstances.
No Action Required for Most
The IRS confirmed that payments would be sent automatically via direct deposit or paper check. Taxpayers with current bank account information on file will receive the funds directly.
Those who have closed their bank accounts since filing their 2023 tax returns will receive paper checks mailed to the address on record.
For most recipients, the money should arrive by late January. The IRS will also send a notification letter to confirm the payment.
Filing Options for Late Claims
Ohioans who haven’t filed a 2021 tax return still have a chance to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. However, they must file their return by April 15, 2025, to receive the credit and any associated refunds.
Claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit will not affect eligibility for federal benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
Significant Impact Expected
The IRS plans to issue about $2.4 billion in payments nationwide.
