What the IRS Announcement Means
The IRS has announced a one-time direct deposit relief payment of $1,390 scheduled for January 2026. This payment is intended to provide short-term financial relief to eligible taxpayers and will be delivered primarily by direct deposit.
The following guide explains who is likely to qualify, how to check status, and practical steps to receive the payment as smoothly as possible.
Who Qualifies for the $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment
Eligibility rules vary, but the most common qualifying factors include recent tax filings, adjusted gross income thresholds, and specific income support programs. The IRS will rely on its records to verify eligibility and payment method.
Typical eligibility elements include:
- Filed a 2023 or 2024 federal tax return or used the IRS non-filer system.
- Registered bank account on file for prior direct deposit of refunds or credits.
- Income under set thresholds defined by the IRS for this relief payment.
How the IRS Determines Direct Deposit Method
The IRS will use existing bank account data on file from recent returns or prior refunds to issue direct deposits. If no direct deposit information is available, the IRS may mail a paper check instead.
To maximize speed, make sure your current bank account was included on your most recent tax return or in the IRS online account settings.
How to Check Eligibility and Payment Status
Use the IRS online tools to confirm eligibility and the expected payment date. The IRS Get My Payment or your IRS online account is the primary source for status updates.
Steps to check status:
- Go to the official IRS website and sign in to your IRS online account.
- Use the Get My Payment tool if it is available for this relief payment.
- Look for payment method (direct deposit or mailed check) and scheduled date.
What to Do If You Don’t See a Payment
If the IRS tool shows no payment or you believe you are eligible but didn’t receive funds, verify that your most recent return included correct bank details and mailing address. It can take several weeks for processing if the IRS needs to match records.
Contact options include: calling the IRS support line, using secure messages in your IRS account, or reviewing IRS notices mailed to your address.
How to Update Direct Deposit Information
Direct deposit can only be updated through specific IRS procedures and generally only when processing a current tax return or via the IRS online account if permitted. The IRS will not accept account changes through email or social media.
To add or update bank information:
- Include your current bank routing and account number on your next tax return.
- Use the IRS online account tools when they explicitly allow banking updates.
- Track IRS communications for any special update windows tied to the relief payment.
Tax and Reporting Implications
Most one-time relief payments of this type are not taxable income, but you should confirm IRS guidance for the specific payment. The IRS will state whether the payment is considered a tax credit or other form of relief.
Keep records of any payment received, including bank deposit notices and IRS correspondence, in case questions arise later.
Payments sent by direct deposit usually appear in your bank account on the same day the IRS posts the transaction. If you are expecting a mailed check, delivery can take several weeks longer.
What to Do If You Receive a Paper Check Instead
If you receive a paper check but prefer direct deposit, deposit the check and then update your bank details on your next tax return. You can also set up your bank to accept mobile check deposit if available.
Be cautious of scams. Only accept checks that clearly reference the IRS on mailed notices and verify deposits in your bank account before sharing any personal information.
Protecting Yourself From Scams
The IRS will not call asking for personal banking passwords or demand immediate payment in exchange for a relief deposit. If you get an unsolicited call or message about the payment, verify by contacting the IRS directly.
Common red flags include requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Small Real-World Example
Case study: Maria is a retail worker who filed a 2024 tax return and included direct deposit details. The IRS confirmed her eligibility in early December and scheduled the $1,390 payment for January 12, 2026.
Maria checked her IRS account to confirm the payment date. The funds posted on the scheduled date, and she used the money for monthly bills and a small emergency fund. Keeping her bank info current allowed the deposit to arrive faster than a mailed check would have.
Quick Checklist Before January 2026
- Confirm you filed a recent federal return or used IRS non-filer tools.
- Check your IRS online account for payment status and method.
- Verify bank routing and account numbers on file if you want direct deposit.
- Watch for official IRS notices and avoid third-party fee services.
- Report missing payments promptly using IRS contact options.
Final Steps and Expectations
The $1,390 direct deposit relief payment scheduled for January 2026 should arrive automatically for eligible taxpayers with bank details on file. Use the IRS online resources to monitor status and follow the checklist above to prepare.
If you still have questions after checking the IRS tools, consult a tax professional or contact the IRS directly. Keep records of communication and any notices you receive related to this payment.
