The Internal Revenue Service has confirmed a one-time direct deposit payment of $1,390 to eligible taxpayers in February 2026. This article explains eligibility rules, the official payment schedule, and practical steps taxpayers must take to receive this relief. Follow the checklist and timelines to avoid delays.
IRS Confirms $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief for February 2026: Key Points
The IRS announced that qualifying taxpayers will receive a $1,390 direct deposit in February 2026. The payment is part of a targeted relief effort and will be automatic for many people who already receive federal payments by direct deposit.
Payments will be issued in waves based on filing status, income records, and whether the IRS already has direct deposit information on file. Read on for clear eligibility rules and the full payment schedule.
Eligibility Rules for the $1,390 Direct Deposit Relief
To qualify for the $1,390 direct deposit relief, taxpayers generally must meet the following rules. These rules reflect the IRS guidance as of the February 2026 announcement.
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualifying resident alien with a valid Social Security number.
- Have filed a 2023 or 2024 federal tax return, or have an IRS record from Social Security Administration or Veterans Affairs showing eligibility for federal benefits.
- Meet the adjusted gross income (AGI) thresholds: single filers under the published AGI cap (check IRS release for exact cap), and joint filers under the doubled cap for married couples filing jointly.
- Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return.
Specific exclusions include nonresident aliens, estates, and entities. The IRS will publish a final list of ineligible groups if additional restrictions apply.
How the IRS Verifies Eligibility
The IRS will cross-check tax return data, Social Security benefit records, and other federal benefit databases. If your direct deposit information is already in IRS records from prior returns or benefit payments, the IRS can send the relief payment automatically.
If verification fails or information is missing, the IRS may send a letter instructing you to confirm details online or by phone.
Payment Schedule and Timing for February 2026
Payments will be issued in a phased schedule during February 2026. The IRS is using staggered waves so systems can process millions of transactions securely and efficiently.
- Week 1: Social Security and other federal benefit recipients with existing direct deposit information.
- Week 2: Tax filers who received refunds by direct deposit in 2023 or 2024.
- Week 3: Additional taxpayers with verified deposits in IRS systems and low-complexity cases.
- Week 4: Final batch including tax filers who updated banking details late or who required manual verification.
Most eligible recipients should see the deposit in their bank accounts during the week assigned to their group. If you have not received the payment by the end of February and you were eligible, follow the action steps below.
What Taxpayers Must Do to Receive the Payment
The IRS aims to make the $1,390 payment automatic for eligible people who already have direct deposit records. If you need to act, follow these steps to help ensure timely delivery.
- Confirm your current direct deposit information on your most recent tax return or benefit records. If it is outdated, update your bank account with the appropriate federal agency if a portal allows updates.
- Make sure you filed a 2023 or 2024 tax return, if required by law. E-filed returns with banking info speed verification.
- Watch for official IRS notices. The IRS will not call asking for bank PINs or passwords. Any suspicious message should be reported to the IRS.
- If you don’t receive the payment and believe you qualify, use the IRS online tools or contact the IRS helpline after February 28, 2026.
Keep copies of recent tax returns and benefit notices handy when contacting the IRS. That documentation helps resolve verification issues faster.
The IRS often matches multiple federal benefit databases to deliver automatic payments. If you already receive Social Security by direct deposit, chances are high you will get the $1,390 payment without extra steps.
Common Questions and Quick Answers
Will everyone get the full $1,390? No. Some taxpayers may receive a prorated amount if their eligibility is partial or if dependents affect the calculation.
Can I change where the payment goes? Only if the IRS gives a deadline and a mechanism to update direct deposit info. Watch IRS announcements closely and update banking info on your tax or benefits portal if allowed.
Real-World Example: How the Payment Works
Case study: Maria is a single parent and claimed a tax refund by direct deposit in 2024. Her AGI fell under the eligibility cap and the IRS already had her bank routing number on file. Maria received the $1,390 direct deposit in the second week of February 2026 with no action required.
By contrast, Tom is a retiree who changed banks in January 2026 but did not update his direct deposit information with Social Security. Tom received an IRS letter asking him to confirm his bank details and got the payment two weeks later after updating his records.
Next Steps and Contacts
If you expect the $1,390 payment, check your bank account during the assigned week. Keep an eye on mail and email for IRS notices that may explain any delays or verification steps.
To report missing payments or suspicious contacts, use the official IRS website and phone numbers. Avoid responding to unsolicited calls that ask for banking passwords or PINs.
Staying proactive and keeping your tax and benefit records up to date is the best way to ensure you receive the February 2026 direct deposit relief quickly and securely.
