IRS Announces $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief for December 2025

IRS Announces $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief for December 2025

The IRS has announced a one-time direct deposit relief payment of $1,390 scheduled for December 2025. This article explains who is likely eligible, how the payments will be delivered, and practical steps to confirm or update your payment information.

What the IRS payment covers

The payment is a targeted relief measure aimed at providing short-term financial assistance to eligible individuals and families. The IRS says payments will be issued primarily by direct deposit to bank accounts on file, with paper checks and prepaid debit cards used when direct deposit information is not available.

Who is eligible for the $1,390 direct deposit relief

The IRS announcement defines eligibility using recent tax return data and certain federal benefit records. Key eligibility factors include tax filing status, recent tax returns on file, and participation in some federal benefit programs.

• Tax filers with a qualifying adjusted gross income (AGI) in the specified range.
• People who filed a 2023 or 2024 federal tax return that the IRS has processed.
• Recipients of certain federal benefits where the IRS can verify eligibility without a recent tax return.

Exact income thresholds and program lists are provided in the IRS announcement. If you did not file a return and do not receive qualifying benefits, you may not automatically receive a payment.

When payments are expected in December 2025

The IRS plans a phased distribution beginning in early to mid-December 2025. Direct deposits are expected to arrive first, followed by mailed paper checks and debit cards for those without direct deposit on file.

• Direct deposit batches: early to mid-December 2025.
• Paper checks and debit cards: later December 2025 and into January 2026 for some recipients.
• Payment timing depends on when the IRS processes eligibility records and banking information.

How to check your eligibility and payment status

Use official IRS tools to confirm eligibility and delivery details. Avoid third-party sites that ask for unnecessary permissions or fees.

• Visit IRS.gov and use the official payment status tool when the IRS opens it for this program.
• Check that the IRS has your current bank account information from a recent tax return.
• Watch your IRS online account messages for updates and notices.

If you haven’t filed a recent tax return

If you did not file a 2023 or 2024 return but believe you qualify, the IRS typically offers guidance on how to claim a payment or register. Follow IRS instructions closely and use secure channels to provide any required information.

What to do if you expect a direct deposit but don’t get one

If your payment does not arrive on the expected date, check the following before contacting the IRS.

• Confirm the bank account on your most recent processed tax return matches the account where you expected the deposit.
• Allow several business days for bank posting; some institutions show pending deposits before finalizing them.
• Look for a mailed notice from the IRS explaining delivery method if a direct deposit failed.

How to report a missing payment

If the IRS tool shows a payment was issued but you did not receive it, follow these steps:

1. Contact your bank to confirm whether a deposit was returned or blocked.
2. Keep any IRS correspondence and take note of payment dates and amounts.
3. If needed, use the IRS contact options listed on IRS.gov for missing payment inquiries.

Practical checklist: Prepare for the December 2025 relief payment

Follow this checklist to reduce delays and ensure you receive any payment due.

• Verify that your 2023 or 2024 federal tax return is filed and processed.
• Confirm your current bank account is on file with the IRS from a recent tax return.
• Monitor IRS.gov for the official payment status tool and announcements.
• Keep ID and proof of income handy if you need to contact the IRS about eligibility.

Case study: A real-world example

Example: Maria is a single parent who filed her 2024 tax return electronically and listed direct deposit information. The IRS processed her return in early November. Maria saw a direct deposit arrive on December 12, 2025, and received an IRS letter confirming the payment two weeks later. Because her banking info was current, she avoided delays and did not need additional IRS contact.

Common questions and quick answers

Will Social Security recipients receive the payment?

The IRS guidance indicates that some Social Security recipients who meet eligibility rules could receive the payment automatically. Check IRS notices and the payment status tool for personalized information.

Can I change my bank account before the payment?

Changing direct deposit after a certain IRS processing cutoff is often not possible. If you need to update banking details, do so as soon as possible and consult IRS resources for deadlines.

Final tips and where to get help

Rely on official IRS channels for the latest updates. Scammers will attempt to use relief payments as bait, so never provide personal information to unsolicited callers or emails claiming to speed up a payment.

• Always start at IRS.gov for tools and official notices.
• Watch for mailed notices from the IRS that explain delivery and next steps.
• Contact a qualified tax professional if you need personalized help with eligibility or missing payments.

Keeping your tax records up to date and using official IRS tools are the most effective ways to ensure you receive any eligible $1,390 direct deposit relief in December 2025.