The IRS has announced a direct deposit relief payment of $1,390 scheduled for February 2026. This article explains who may qualify, what steps to take now, and how to check the status of your payment.
IRS Announces $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment For February 2026: Who is Covered
The IRS plans to send targeted relief payments to eligible individuals by direct deposit in February 2026. Eligibility will depend on criteria set by Congress and the IRS, which typically include recent tax filings or benefit records.
Expect official IRS guidance and mailed notices that explain eligibility, the payment amount, and any documentation you may need to confirm. Keep an eye on IRS.gov for the latest updates.
How eligibility is usually determined
- Recent federal tax returns on file (usually the most recent year).
- Social Security Administration records for many beneficiaries.
- Other federal program enrollment records (if applicable).
If you filed taxes in the last one to two years, the IRS will typically use those records to confirm payment eligibility and direct deposit details.
How to Prepare for the $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment
Take practical steps now so the IRS can deliver the payment to your bank account without delays. Confirming your information is the fastest path to receiving a direct deposit.
Steps to confirm or update account details
- Log into your IRS.gov account (or create one) and review your payment/account settings.
- Use IRS online tools such as View Your Account or Get My Payment if the IRS activates them for this program.
- Make sure your Social Security number and mailing address match IRS records.
- If needed, update your bank routing and account number through the IRS tool or when you file your next tax return.
If you rely on a tax preparer, provide them with correct bank details before they file your return so the IRS has accurate direct deposit information on record.
How to Check the Status of the $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment
The IRS typically offers online tools to track payment status. Use these tools to confirm when a deposit is expected and whether the payment has been sent.
What to look for in the payment tracker
- Estimated deposit date and method (direct deposit vs. mailed check).
- Any error messages that require you to update information.
- Instructions if the payment was returned by your bank.
If the tracker shows the payment was sent but you do not see it in your account after the posted date, contact your bank first. Banks sometimes place holds or post deposits on the next business day.
What If You Don t Get the $1390 Direct Deposit in February 2026
If a deposit is returned or the IRS does not have valid direct deposit details, the agency may mail a paper check or prepaid debit card to the address on file. This can add several weeks to delivery time.
To resolve missing payments:
- Confirm address and SSN with the IRS online account or in mailed notices.
- Check for any IRS letter explaining a problem and follow the instructions.
- Call the IRS only after you have checked online tools and waited the advised time frame to avoid long hold times.
Common reasons payments are delayed
- Incorrect or outdated bank account information.
- Returned deposits due to closed accounts.
- Identity verification issues or incomplete records.
Most IRS relief payments are processed automatically using the most recent tax return or benefit records the agency has on file. Confirming your IRS online account can speed up delivery and reduce mistakes.
Document Checklist: What to Have Ready
Before contacting the IRS or updating your details, gather key documents. Having them ready helps you move quickly if the IRS requests verification.
- Most recent federal tax return (Form 1040).
- Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit.
- Any IRS notices you received about the payment.
Simple Case Study: How One Family Confirmed Their Payment
Example: John and Maria are married and filed a joint 2024 tax return with direct deposit information. In early January they logged into their IRS.gov account to confirm their bank details and watched the IRS tracker in mid-February.
The tracker showed a deposit scheduled for February 12. The funds posted to their account on February 13. Because they confirmed details ahead of time, they avoided a mailed check and received funds faster.
This example shows how checking your IRS account and updating details early can reduce delays and the chance of a returned deposit.
Final Tips for a Smooth $1390 Direct Deposit
- Check IRS.gov regularly for official updates and notices about the program.
- Use secure IRS tools—avoid sharing personal details on social media or with unverified callers.
- Keep your contact and banking information current with the IRS and your tax preparer.
- Save any IRS letters or emails about the payment for your records.
Following these steps will help you prepare for the $1,390 direct deposit relief payment and reduce the chance of delays. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to IRS.gov and official IRS communications.