The IRS has announced a $1390 direct deposit relief payment scheduled for January 2026. This article explains who may qualify, how payments will be sent, how to check status, and steps to take if you do not receive the payment.
What is the IRS $1390 direct deposit relief payment
The $1390 direct deposit relief payment is a one-time payment the IRS plans to send to eligible individuals in January 2026. The IRS describes it as targeted financial relief intended to help households manage rising costs and recent tax changes.
The payment will be sent by direct deposit to bank accounts on file or by paper check when direct deposit information is not available.
Who qualifies for the IRS $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment
Eligibility is determined by income, filing status, and certain tax credits claimed on your most recent federal tax return. The IRS has published general guidelines to identify qualifying recipients.
- U.S. citizens or resident aliens who filed a 2024 or 2025 federal tax return.
- Individuals with adjusted gross income (AGI) below the IRS threshold listed in their announcement.
- Tax filers who claimed specific credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit (CTC) may be prioritized.
- People receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits may qualify if they meet income rules.
Check the IRS announcement or your tax preparer for precise income limits and qualifying credits. Eligibility can vary based on the final rules the IRS sets for distribution.
How the IRS will send the $1390 payment
The IRS will use existing bank account information on file from recent tax returns to send direct deposit payments. If the IRS lacks direct deposit information, it will mail a paper check to the last known address.
Key points about delivery:
- Direct deposit is fastest and most secure.
- Paper checks can take several weeks longer to arrive.
- Fraud protections and verification steps may delay some payments.
When will the January 2026 direct deposits arrive
Deposit dates will be staggered during January 2026. The IRS typically schedules batches by adjusted gross income or by last name to manage processing. Exact dates will be posted on the IRS site and in their payment notices.
If you expect the payment, plan for funds to arrive any time during January, with some recipients seeing deposits earlier and others later in the month.
How to check if you will receive the IRS $1390 payment
Use official IRS tools and notices to verify payment status. Avoid scams and third-party sites offering early information in exchange for fees.
- Check the IRS “Get My Payment” or equivalent portal when available.
- Review your 2024 or 2025 tax return bank account and address details.
- Watch for mailed letters from the IRS that confirm payment amount and date.
The IRS often uses adjusted gross income from the most recent return on file to determine eligibility and payment method. If you updated your bank details with your tax return, those details will be used for direct deposit.
What to do if you do not receive the $1390 payment
If you expected the payment but did not receive it by the end of January, follow these steps to resolve the issue.
- Verify your eligibility based on IRS criteria and your most recent tax return.
- Check the IRS payment portal for status updates and direct deposit information.
- Confirm the bank account and mailing address on your last filed return.
- Watch for an IRS mailed notice explaining delays or reasons for nonpayment.
- Contact the IRS directly using official numbers if you cannot find an explanation after checking notices and online tools.
Common reasons payments are delayed or missed
- Missing or incorrect bank information on file with the IRS.
- Recent address changes that were not updated on a tax return.
- Eligibility changes after filing (for example, income increases).
- Fraud or identity verification flags requiring additional review.
Practical tips to prepare for the January 2026 deposit
Take a few simple steps now to reduce delays and ensure you receive the payment if you qualify.
- File your 2025 tax return early and accurately if you expect to qualify.
- Update your bank account and mailing address on your return or via IRS tools.
- Use direct deposit for faster access to funds.
- Keep copies of IRS notices and your tax return for reference.
Real-world example
Case study: Maria is a single parent who filed her 2024 tax return with direct deposit information. She qualified for the Earned Income Tax Credit and met income limits. The IRS sent her $1390 deposit on January 12, 2026, to the checking account listed on her return.
Maria checked the IRS portal before the deposit, confirmed her bank account, and saved the IRS notice she received by mail. When her bank showed the deposit, she used the funds to cover car repairs and grocery expenses that month.
How to spot scams related to the $1390 payment
Scammers will try to exploit relief payments. The IRS will not call demanding bank details or ask for upfront fees to process your payment.
- Do not share your Social Security number or bank account over unsolicited calls or emails.
- Only use official IRS.gov links and phone numbers listed there.
- Be suspicious of urgent messages asking to “verify” payment with personal information.
Summary
The IRS $1390 direct deposit relief payment for January 2026 is a targeted one-time payment for eligible taxpayers. Confirm your eligibility, keep your bank and address details current, and use official IRS tools to track the payment. If you miss the deposit, follow the IRS guidance and contact them directly if problems remain unresolved.
For the latest official details, always check IRS.gov and your tax preparer. This article is informational and does not replace IRS announcements or official guidance.