Over the past few months, headlines and social media posts have circulated claims about a new $1,390 IRS direct deposit. For millions of Americans navigating higher living costs, inflation pressures, and economic uncertainty, the number has sparked immediate interest.
But here’s the reality: there is no new nationwide $1,390 stimulus check officially announced by the Internal Revenue Service.
So why are people seeing deposits or hearing about payments close to that amount? The answer lies in a combination of federal tax credits, refunds, and state-level relief programs that can total around $1,390 for eligible individuals.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what this payment figure actually represents—and how to determine whether you may qualify.
Where the $1,390 Figure Is Coming From
The $1,390 amount is not tied to a single government program. Instead, it reflects a common refund range many taxpayers receive after combining various credits and overpaid taxes during filing season.
Each year, millions of Americans receive tax refunds through direct deposit. Depending on income, filing status, and eligible credits, many refunds land in the $1,000–$1,500 range.
Because $1,390 falls within that typical window, it has gained attention online and is sometimes mischaracterized as a new federal payment.
Federal Programs That Could Total Around $1,390
Several federal tax credits administered by the IRS can significantly increase a taxpayer’s refund.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is one of the largest refundable tax credits available to low- and moderate-income workers.
Eligibility depends on:
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
- Filing status
- Number of qualifying children
For eligible individuals, the EITC can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. In many cases, after tax liability adjustments, refunds can land near the $1,390 mark.
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
The Child Tax Credit continues to provide substantial financial relief for families with qualifying dependents.
Although pandemic-era expansions have ended, the current credit can still boost refunds significantly when combined with other tax benefits.
Additional Federal Credits
Other credits that may increase total refunds include:
- Education credits
- Retirement Savings Contributions Credit
- Premium Tax Credit for health insurance coverage
When combined, these credits can easily result in a direct deposit around $1,390—depending on individual tax circumstances.
State Relief Programs May Also Contribute
In recent years, several states introduced targeted relief programs to help residents offset rising housing costs, inflation, and energy prices.
States such as:
- California
- Colorado
- Minnesota
- Maryland
- New Mexico
have issued rebate checks ranging from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000.
When state refunds are combined with federal refunds, the total deposit may approach or exceed $1,390.
Because many state payments are distributed via direct deposit—similar to federal refunds—some recipients mistakenly assume the funds represent a new IRS stimulus program.
Who Is Most Likely to Receive a Payment Near $1,390?
There is no fixed eligibility list for a $1,390 payment. However, individuals most likely to receive refunds in that range typically include:
- Low- to moderate-income workers
- Families with one or more qualifying dependents
- Taxpayers eligible for EITC or Child Tax Credit
- Individuals who had excess federal withholding during the year
- Residents who qualify for state-level rebate programs
Refund amounts are based on a combination of income, deductions, credits, and taxes already paid.
No two taxpayers will receive identical payments unless their financial circumstances are nearly identical.
How to Check If You Qualify
If you are wondering whether you may receive a payment around $1,390, the first step is reviewing your tax situation.
1. File Your Tax Return
The IRS does not issue refunds or credits without a filed return. Filing electronically and choosing direct deposit is typically the fastest method.
2. Review Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
Your AGI determines eligibility for many credits, including the EITC and Child Tax Credit.
Lower AGI levels generally increase credit eligibility.
3. Use Official IRS Tools
The IRS website offers refund tracking and credit eligibility tools. Avoid relying on unofficial social media claims or unverified websites.
Only information published directly by the Internal Revenue Service or your state’s revenue department should be considered authoritative.
Payment Timing and Delivery
If you qualify for a federal refund and file electronically with direct deposit, the IRS typically issues payments within 21 days.
However, processing may take longer if:
- Additional documentation is required
- Credits like EITC trigger verification checks
- Bank account details are incorrect
State payments operate on separate timelines, often issuing funds within weeks of approval.
Banks may take one to three business days to clear deposits once received.
Ensuring your banking information is accurate is essential to avoid delays.
Why There Is No New $1,390 Stimulus
As of now, there has been no announcement from the IRS or the United States Congress authorizing a new nationwide $1,390 stimulus check.
Economic relief programs passed during the pandemic were specific legislative actions. Any new stimulus payment would require congressional approval and formal public announcement.
Without that process, viral payment claims should be approached with caution.
Stay Informed and Avoid Misinformation
Financial rumors spread quickly—especially when they involve direct deposits.
To protect yourself:
- Rely only on official government websites
- Avoid sharing personal information in response to viral payment claims
- Confirm eligibility details directly through IRS or state portals
- File taxes accurately and on time
Refunds around $1,390 are entirely possible, but they depend on legitimate tax calculations—not a hidden stimulus program.
The Bottom Line
The so-called “IRS $1,390 payment” is not a new federal stimulus. Instead, it reflects typical refund amounts many taxpayers receive through:
- Earned Income Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Other federal tax credits
- State-level rebate programs
If you want to determine your eligibility, review your income, file your return promptly, and use official IRS resources.
In today’s economic climate, accurate financial information is just as valuable as the refund itself.