As December 2025 moves toward its end, millions of Americans are searching for financial relief amid rising costs of groceries, rent, utilities, and healthcare. In recent weeks, widespread reports and viral headlines have claimed that the Internal Revenue Service is preparing to issue a $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment. The news has sparked hope, confusion, and debate across social media and financial forums.
While the idea of an additional payment is appealing, it is essential to separate verified IRS information from online speculation. This article explains where the $1,390 figure comes from, who may actually receive money close to this amount, how IRS payments are typically issued, and how to protect yourself from misinformation and scams.
Table of Contents
Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Reported Amount | $1,390 (not officially confirmed as a universal payment) |
| Issuing Authority | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) |
| Likely Source | Tax refunds or unclaimed credits |
| Income Limits Cited | $75,000 single, $150,000 married |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit or paper check |
| Official Reference | http://IRS.gov |
IRS $1,390 Direct Deposit
The $1,390 figure did not originate from an official IRS announcement confirming a new nationwide stimulus. Instead, it has appeared repeatedly in online discussions, news summaries, and social media posts throughout late 2025. In most cases, this amount is linked to average tax refunds, adjusted refunds, or previously unclaimed tax credits rather than a brand-new relief check.
Historically, the IRS issues money based on tax filings, not spontaneous “bonus” deposits. Many taxpayers receive refunds close to this amount after claiming credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. For others, it may represent a correction to a past return or a delayed refund rather than a new relief program.
At this time, the IRS has not officially announced a universal $1,390 stimulus payment similar to earlier Economic Impact Payments.
Income Limits and Eligibility Claims
Although the payment itself is unconfirmed, reports frequently cite familiar income thresholds similar to past IRS relief programs. These limits are designed to ensure financial support reaches low- and moderate-income households.
| Filing Status | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|
| Single | Up to $75,000 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $150,000 |
| Head of Household | Up to $112,500 |
| Married Filing Separately | Up to $75,000 |
Individuals earning slightly above these levels may qualify for reduced amounts, while higher earners are typically excluded. Eligibility is usually determined using the most recent tax return on file, typically from 2024 or early 2025.
How IRS Payments Are Typically Delivered?
When the IRS issues refunds, credits, or adjustments, payments are sent using the method already on file. There is no separate application process for most IRS payments.
Direct deposit remains the fastest option, often arriving within 21 days after a return is processed. If no banking details are available, the IRS sends a paper check to the address listed on the tax return. In limited cases, funds may arrive via a prepaid debit card mailed to the taxpayer.
The IRS does not require recipients to confirm payments through third-party websites, emails, or text messages.
Conclusion
The $1,390 relief amount has been widely discussed across online platforms, but it has not been officially confirmed by the IRS as a new stimulus payment. In most cases, payments close to this figure are connected to regular tax refunds, delayed credits, or adjustments from previously filed returns rather than a newly announced relief program. The income limits being mentioned in these reports closely follow earlier IRS assistance guidelines, which typically focus on supporting low- to moderate-income earners. When any IRS payment is issued, direct deposit remains the fastest and most commonly used delivery method. At the same time, increased attention around potential payments has led to a rise in scams, making it especially important for taxpayers to rely only on official IRS sources and avoid sharing personal information.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the $1,390 IRS payment officially confirmed?
No, the IRS has not confirmed a universal $1,390 relief payment.
2. Could I still receive money close to $1,390?
Yes, through tax refunds, credits, or return adjustments.
3. How can I verify my IRS payment status?
Use official IRS tools available on the IRS website only.
