IRS Announces $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief for February 2026

The IRS has announced a new direct deposit relief payment of $1,390 scheduled for February 2026. This article explains who may qualify, how the payments are being issued, when you can expect funds in your bank account, and what steps to take if you do not receive a deposit.

IRS Announces $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief for February 2026 — What You Need to Know

The IRS says it will send a one-time direct deposit relief payment of $1,390 to eligible taxpayers and benefit recipients. Payments are aimed at providing short-term financial support and will be delivered electronically to bank accounts on file when possible.

This overview focuses on eligibility, the expected timeline, how to check your status, and practical actions to confirm or update payment details.

Why the IRS Is Sending This Direct Deposit Relief

The IRS frames this payment as emergency relief to address economic concerns for certain individuals and households. The agency will rely on existing tax returns and benefit records to determine recipients and the payment method.

Eligibility Rules for $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief

Eligibility is based on IRS guidance tied to recent tax filings, Social Security records, and other federal benefit databases. Typical criteria include residency, filing status, and valid Social Security numbers, though exact rules can vary.

• Citizens or residents with valid Social Security numbers generally qualify, subject to income limits.
• People who filed a 2024 or 2025 tax return may be prioritized because the IRS uses those returns to verify eligibility and payment amounts.
• Social Security and veterans benefit recipients might receive payments automatically if the IRS has current banking details on file.
• Nonresident aliens and certain dependents typically do not qualify.

Note: The IRS will publish a formal eligibility list and any income phase-outs. Check IRS.gov for official, up-to-date rules before assuming qualification.

How the IRS Determines Direct Deposit vs. Paper Checks

The IRS uses existing banking information from tax returns, direct deposit records, or Social Security Administration files to deliver funds electronically. If no bank account is available, the IRS may issue a mailed check or prepaid debit card.

To maximize chances of receiving a direct deposit, ensure your current bank account is on file with the IRS or the federal benefits office that handles your payments.

When Payments Are Expected in February 2026

The IRS expects to begin issuing payments in February 2026. While exact dates can shift, payments frequently arrive mid- to late-month once processing batches run.

• Notification: The IRS often posts a schedule or alert on IRS.gov when payments begin.
• Arrival: Direct deposits typically appear in bank accounts within 1–3 business days after the IRS processes the payment.
• Mail: Paper checks take longer—allow an additional 1–3 weeks for mailed payments to arrive.

Keep in mind that weekends and bank processing times can delay visible posting of funds. If you expect a deposit and it hasn’t appeared, start checking with your bank and the IRS status tools after a few business days.

How to Check Payment Status and Update Information

Use these practical steps to confirm your status and avoid missing a direct deposit:

1. Visit IRS.gov and use any available payment status tools (for example, the IRS “Get My Payment” style portal if provided for this relief).
2. Log into your IRS online account to confirm address and bank information.
3. If you receive Social Security or federal benefits, verify your payment details with the benefits office so the IRS can access updated bank information.
4. Contact your bank to question delays or holds on incoming deposits.

Protect Yourself: Avoid Scams and Phishing

When payments are announced, scammers often try to exploit recipients. The IRS will not call asking for your bank account number or demand payment to get your relief money.

• Never provide personal information in response to unsolicited calls or emails claiming to represent the IRS.
• Use only IRS.gov and known federal agency phone numbers to confirm details.
• Look out for fake check scams and requests to repay a portion of the relief.

Small Real-World Example

Case study: Sarah is a retiree who receives monthly Social Security benefits and has direct deposit set up with the SSA. After the IRS announced the February relief, she checked the IRS online account and confirmed the bank account on file. By mid-February, she saw a $1,390 direct deposit. Because she kept records current, the payment posted without delay.

This example shows the importance of confirming current banking and contact information before the IRS issues mass relief payments.

What to Do If You Don’t Receive the $1,390 Payment

If you expect the payment but don’t see it by the dates announced by the IRS, follow these steps:

• Check the IRS payment status tool and your IRS online account for alerts.
• Review any notices from the IRS regarding eligibility or issues with your file.
• Confirm bank routing and account numbers with your financial institution.
• If necessary, contact the IRS help line listed on IRS.gov for further guidance.

Keep copies of your tax returns and correspondence in case you need to verify eligibility or correct information after the fact.

Final Notes

The IRS $1,390 direct deposit relief for February 2026 is intended to reach eligible recipients quickly via electronic payments. To help ensure you receive funds, confirm your filing status, keep your bank details current, and monitor official IRS communication channels. For the latest official updates, always check IRS.gov.