In early 2026 there’s widespread talk online about the Internal Revenue Service issuing a $1,390 direct deposit relief payment to taxpayers in February 2026. Claims about automatic stimulus checks or federal relief deposits have spread quickly on social media, blogs, and unofficial news sites, creating a sense of anticipation among many Americans wondering if another government support payment like pandemic-era stimulus checks is on the way.
However, there is currently no official announcement from the IRS, the U.S. Treasury, or Congress confirming a $1,390 direct deposit payment for February 2026. Reports circulating online that such a payment will be issued are based on speculation, proposals, or unverified information rather than authenticated government declarations. This article breaks down what is currently true, what remains unconfirmed, and how you can protect yourself from misinformation and scams during tax season.
What the $1390 Payment Claim Actually Is
The idea of a $1,390 IRS direct deposit relief payment appears to have originated from online posts linking it to broader fiscal proposals or tariff rebate discussions rather than a signed law or government plan. According to fact-checking by multiple news outlets, there is no law authorizing such a payment, and no IRS press release has confirmed a new federal relief distribution tied to that amount.
Most expert analysis points out that the IRS cannot issue large federal payments without explicit congressional approval and funding authorization. Unlike regular tax refunds or refundable credits tied to tax returns, any special relief payment would require legislation and a clear implementation plan published on official IRS or Treasury Department sites.
Why the Rumor Spread So Widely
There are several reasons the $1,390 claim has become so widespread:
- Online content and headlines often mimic language similar to past stimulus support programs, which many people remember from 2020 and 2021.
- The figure $1,390 is close to various credit or refund amounts that the IRS might issue through normal tax processes, leading to confusion in unofficial reporting.
- Political discussions about tariff dividends and proposed federal rebates have included speculative ideas about returning tariff revenue to taxpayers, but none of these proposals have become law.
These factors have combined to make the rumor more believable even though no official program currently exists.
Official IRS Statements and What Is Actually Happening
The IRS has not published any notices on its official website or in its Newsroom announcing a $1,390 direct deposit relief payment for February 2026. Legitimate IRS communications continue to focus on regular tax matters such as:
- Tax filing deadlines and schedules
- Refund processing timelines
- Guidance on refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit
Any direct deposit amounts that appear in early 2026 for individual taxpayers are more likely to be standard tax refunds, adjustments from amended returns, or payments related to refundable credits, not a new relief program.
What to Do If You See Similar Claims
It’s important to treat any message asking for personal financial information, Social Security numbers, or bank details as suspicious unless it comes directly from an official IRS channel such as IRS.gov or a secure myIRS online account. The IRS will not contact taxpayers directly via text, social media, or unsolicited email to “claim” a payment.
To stay informed and avoid scams:
- Always verify payment announcements on IRS.gov
- Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool to check the status of your tax refund
- Keep tax filings and direct deposit information up to date
- Ignore posts that claim to guarantee special payments without official documentation
Final Takeaway
At this time, the IRS has not confirmed or scheduled a $1,390 direct deposit relief payment for February 2026. Claims you may see on blogs or social media are based on rumor or speculative proposals and should not be taken as official government announcements. The only confirmed financial transfers the IRS typically manages are tax refunds, refundable credits tied to filed returns, and payments mandated by law.
FAQs
Is the IRS issuing a $1,390 direct deposit payment in February 2026?
No. There is no official IRS confirmation of such a payment being issued at this time.
Why are people talking about a $1390 IRS payment?
The claim originates from unverified online reports and proposals discussed in political or social media content, not from government announcements.
Does the IRS ever send surprise deposits?
The IRS may send refunds or adjustments based on tax filings, but these are not special stimulus payments.
How can I verify real IRS payments?
Only check official IRS.gov notices or your secure IRS online account to confirm any payment or credit.
Could such a payment be approved later?
It’s possible in the future if Congress passes authorized legislation, but nothing is approved or scheduled right now.