What the IRS 1390 Direct Deposit Alert Means
Some taxpayers are seeing notifications about an IRS 1390 direct deposit. This notice can refer to a payment or adjustment tied to a refund, tax credit, or correction to a prior tax return.
Because messages and deposits about money trigger quick action, it helps to know how to confirm whether a deposit is real and whether you qualify.
How to Confirm an IRS 1390 Direct Deposit Alert
Follow these steps to verify the alert before you take any action. These checks take minutes and reduce the risk of falling for scams.
- Log in to your official IRS online account at irs.gov. Do not click links from emails or texts.
- Check your bank account for a matching direct deposit amount and a recognizable payer name.
- Review your most recent tax return and IRS notices for references to adjustments or credits.
- Use Get Transcript or account transcripts to see refunds, offsets, and payment details.
What Documents You May Need
- Last filed tax return (Form 1040)
- IRS notices you received by mail
- Bank statements showing deposits
- Government-issued ID for identity verification if you contact the IRS
Who Might Qualify for a 1390 Deposit
Eligibility depends on the reason for the payment. Common sources include refund corrections, tax credits, or reconciled tax account balances.
Typical qualifying situations include:
- Overpaid taxes from a recent return that the IRS is refunding
- Adjusted credits such as the Additional Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Credit after reprocessing
- Corrections from amended returns or IRS account reconciliations
How to Check If You Qualify
To determine if you are eligible for a specific IRS deposit, use these practical checks:
- Access your IRS account dashboard to view payments and notices.
- Compare the deposit amount to any refund or credit amounts shown on your transcript.
- If you filed an amended return, note that processing can take weeks; the transcript will show status updates.
- Call the IRS at the official number listed on irs.gov only if you cannot confirm online.
Red Flags and How to Avoid Scams
Scammers use fake deposit alerts to get personal data. The IRS rarely initiates contact by email, text, or social media to request personal bank details.
Watch for these red flags:
- Unsolicited texts or emails asking for bank routing or account numbers
- Requests to click unknown links to “confirm” a deposit
- Pressure to act immediately or threats of arrest
If you suspect fraud, forward suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov and delete the message. Do not give personal information to callers who make unsolicited contact.
The IRS first sends most official notices by mail. If you receive a message about a deposit but did not get a mailed notice, verify through your IRS account before responding.
Practical Steps if You See a Deposit
If your bank shows a deposit that matches an IRS payment, take these steps to confirm and document it.
- Save a screenshot of the bank deposit and any IRS account entries.
- Compare the amount to your tax return refund line or expected credit amount.
- If the deposit looks incorrect, contact the IRS and your bank to report and investigate.
When to Contact the IRS or Your Bank
Contact the IRS if the deposit is in your account but not reflected on your IRS online account or transcript.
Contact your bank if you suspect the deposit is from a wrong source, or if you see unauthorized account activity after the deposit.
Case Study: One Person’s Experience
Example: Maria received a bank notification for a 1,390 deposit. She did not expect any refund, so she logged into her IRS account first.
The transcript showed a refund adjustment from a corrected tax credit after the IRS processed her amended return. Maria saved the transcript and the bank statement and called her bank to confirm the deposit was posted correctly.
By verifying online and saving documentation, Maria avoided a scam and had proof if questions arose later.
Common Questions and Quick Answers
- Q: Can the IRS deposit unexpectedly into my account?
A: Yes, but the IRS usually records the payment in your online account and sends notices by mail. - Q: What if I never gave the IRS my bank info?
A: The IRS can issue a paper check or use bank info from a recent return or refund claim. Verify with the IRS transcript. - Q: How long to resolve a disputed deposit?
A: It varies. Bank investigations or IRS corrections can take weeks, so document everything promptly.
Final Checklist: What To Do Now
- Do not click links in texts or emails claiming to be from the IRS.
- Log into your official IRS account at irs.gov to check payments and notices.
- Compare the deposit to your tax records and transcripts.
- Save screenshots and bank statements showing the deposit.
- Contact the IRS or your bank using official numbers if you cannot confirm the deposit.
Acting quickly and using official IRS tools will help you confirm whether you qualify for the 1390 direct deposit and protect you from scams. If you remain unsure, document the deposit and contact the IRS for a clear explanation.







