The IRS has announced a $1390 direct deposit relief payment to be distributed in February 2026. This guide explains who is eligible, how the payment is calculated, when funds will arrive, and what to do if you do not receive the payment.
IRS Announces $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment For February 2026 — Overview
The $1390 direct deposit relief payment is a one-time federal payment sent to eligible individuals by the IRS. The program targets households that meet specific income and filing conditions established by recent tax guidance.
Payments are being produced as direct deposits where the IRS already has banking information. Mailed checks and prepaid debit cards will follow for people without direct deposit details on file.
Why the February 2026 payment matters
This payment is intended to provide short-term financial relief to qualifying taxpayers. It may help cover essential expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries during early 2026.
Understanding eligibility and timing helps you plan and avoid common mistakes when checking payment status.
Who is eligible for the $1390 direct deposit relief payment?
Eligibility is based on tax filing status, adjusted gross income (AGI), and other IRS rules. Not everyone will qualify.
- U.S. citizens or resident aliens who filed a 2024 tax return or the most recent return the IRS has on file.
- Household AGI below the IRS set threshold (usually based on filing status).
- Non-dependent taxpayers who meet income limits and other program rules.
The IRS has published detailed eligibility lists on IRS.gov. If you did not file recently, you may need to file a simple return to establish eligibility.
Common eligibility questions
Dependents typically do not receive a separate payment. Social Security recipients may be eligible if they meet the program rules but should confirm via the IRS portal.
Mixed-status households should check the IRS guidance carefully; in some situations only certain household members qualify.
How the $1390 amount is calculated
The announced $1390 is the base payment for eligible single filers or the per-person share used by the IRS to compute total household payments. Some households may receive a larger combined amount based on qualifying members.
Factors that influence the final payment include filing status, number of eligible household members, and any offset or federal debts that can be legally withheld.
- Single filer: base payment (example: $1390).
- Heads of household and joint filers: combined payments depending on eligible members.
- Offsets: past-due federal or state obligations may reduce the net payment.
How to check IRS payment status and timing
Use the IRS Get My Payment tool and your online IRS account to check status. These tools show whether the payment is scheduled, issued, or if additional action is required from you.
- Visit IRS.gov and select the payment status tool.
- Enter your personal details exactly as shown on your tax return.
- Review the status: scheduled, sent, or not eligible.
If your direct deposit information is outdated, the tool will indicate whether a mailed check will be issued instead. Keep documents like your most recent tax return and Social Security number handy when checking status.
Timing expectations
The IRS plans distribution throughout February 2026. If you are issued a direct deposit, most recipients see funds within 1–3 business days after issuance. Mailed payments can take 1–3 weeks.
Delays are possible during high-volume periods. Monitor the IRS tool and your bank account for updates.
What to do if you don’t receive the $1390 payment
First, verify eligibility in the IRS tools. If you were marked eligible but did not receive payment, follow these steps.
- Confirm bank account details on file with the IRS. Update if necessary by filing a return with current direct deposit information.
- Check for notices from the IRS explaining offsets or payment issues.
- If your payment was returned or rejected by your bank, expect a mailed check; allow additional processing time.
- Contact the IRS taxpayer assistance line only after verifying status online and waiting for the normal processing windows listed by the IRS.
Case Study: Real-World Example
Maria, a single mother in Ohio, filed her 2024 tax return early and elected direct deposit. The IRS marked her as eligible and issued the $1390 payment on February 10.
Her bank posted the deposit on February 12. Maria used the funds to cover a past-due utility bill and a week of groceries. She confirmed status using the IRS Get My Payment tool and saved the IRS confirmation for her records.
The IRS often issues direct deposit payments faster than mailed checks. If the IRS already has your bank information from a recent tax return or benefit payment, you are more likely to receive funds by direct deposit.
Quick checklist to prepare for the February 2026 IRS payment
- Confirm you filed the most recent required tax return and that the IRS has correct personal and bank details.
- Use IRS.gov tools to check eligibility and payment status before contacting the IRS.
- Watch for official IRS notices by mail; do not trust unsolicited phone calls or emails asking for personal data.
- Keep records of your tax return and any IRS confirmation pages in case you need to verify your claim.
Final notes on the IRS $1390 direct deposit relief payment
The February 2026 relief payment aims to provide timely help to qualifying households. Follow the IRS instructions, keep your contact and bank details current, and use official IRS tools to monitor status.
If you remain unsure about eligibility or have complex tax circumstances, consider consulting a tax professional who can review your specific situation and advise on next steps.