February 8, 2021 Most people who are eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit already received it, in advance as two Economic Impact Payments and won't claim it or include information about payments when they file. People who are eligible – and either didn't receive any Economic Impact Payments or received less than the full amounts – must file a 2020 tax return to claim a Recovery Rebate Credit, even if they don't usually file. Economic Impact Payments were based on 2018 or 2019 tax year information. The Recovery Rebate Credit is similar except that it's based on the 2020 tax return. Tax preparation software, including IRS Free File, will help you figure the amount. See the Recovery Rebate Credit FAQs for more information. The IRS urges you to file electronically and choose direct deposit to get your refund faster and avoid pandemic-related paper delays.
