Understanding Your Letter 6550

 

What this letter is about

Our records show you may qualify for one or more of the credits below expanded by the American Rescue Plan Act for 2021. You can receive the full amount of these credits even if you have little or no income.
You must file a 2021 tax return to claim these credits.

Recovery Rebate Credit

  • For stimulus payment amounts you did not receive in 2021
  • U.S. citizens or resident aliens with a valid Social Security number may qualify
  • Worth up to:
    • $1,400 per eligible adult plus
    • $1,400 per qualifying adult or child dependent

Get more information on the Recovery Rebate Credit

Child Tax Credit

  • Up to $3,600 for each qualifying child ages 5 and under
  • Up to $3,000 for each qualifying child ages 6 through 17
  • You may have received up to half of this amount through monthly payments in 2021. You must file a tax return to receive the rest. See Letter 6419 for more information.

Get more information on the Child Tax Credit

Earned Income Tax Credit

  • Based on your wages and income from self-employment
  • Worth up to:
    • $1,502 with no children
    • $3,618 with 1 child
    • $5,980 with 2 children
    • $6,728 with 3+ children

Get more information on the Earned Income Tax Credit

    What you need to do

    To claim these credits, file a return as soon as possible.

    The easiest, fastest and most secure way to claim these credits is to electronically file a 2021 income tax return. Electronic filing options are only available for a limited time. Visit ChildTaxCredit.gov/file as soon as possible to file your return. More information on electronic filing is available at IRS.gov/FreeFile.

    If you miss the electronic filing period, you can still claim the credits by filing a paper return. Find tax forms or publications by visiting IRS.gov/forms or calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

    If you’ve already filed your 2021 tax return claiming these credits, or were a dependent of another taxpayer for 2021, please disregard this notice.

    Frequently asked questions

    Will claiming these credits affect my eligibility for federal benefits?

    Claiming these credits has no effect on your eligibility for federal benefits such as:

    Will claiming these credits affect my immigration status?

    It won’t affect your immigration status, ability to get a Green Card or immigration benefits.