IRS Has Not Issued New $1,390 Relief Payments
Social media rumors about a new stimulus payment are false, and the IRS is not sending money via direct deposit links.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Taxes

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Recent social media claims suggesting the IRS is distributing a $1,390 relief payment are incorrect. No such federal payment program exists, and tax officials warn that unsolicited messages requesting banking information for government money are fraudulent.
Why it matters
These rumors stem from confusion following pandemic-era stimulus programs and recent political proposals like a $2,000 tariff dividend, which is not an active federal program. Understanding these distinctions helps taxpayers avoid phishing scams that target personal and financial data.
While social media posts circulate figures like $1,390 for phantom payments, the final deadline to claim the legitimate Recovery Rebate Credit was April 15, 2025. The IRS continues to communicate exclusively through official mail channels.
The players
IRS
The federal agency responsible for tax collection and the administration of tax-based credits and refunds.
President Donald Trump
The current President of the United States who proposed a $2,000 tariff dividend that is not an active federal payment program.
The details
Scammers often use terms like IRS and direct deposit to create urgency and trick households into clicking links. In reality, the IRS does not request banking information through unsolicited text or email messages. Taxpayers should be aware that while individual states like New York, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, and New Jersey have historically offered localized relief programs, there is no corresponding federal check currently being issued.
Timeline
2021: The federal government issued the third round of Economic Impact Payments.
April 15, 2025: The final deadline passed for households to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Nov 9: President Donald Trump proposed a $2,000 tariff dividend on social media.
Money Landscape
Public expectations for federal relief remain high following the expiration of the Recovery Rebate Credit. These persistent rumors highlight a gap between temporary pandemic-era fiscal measures and current tax policy.
Verify all tax-related claims through official IRS channels rather than clicking links found in unsolicited text or email messages. If you receive a suspicious communication, consult a qualified tax professional to confirm your actual refund or credit status.
The takeaway
No federal stimulus payment program is currently authorized or operating. Always treat unexpected messages about government deposits with skepticism and rely solely on verified information from official tax authorities.
Further reading
For guidance on identifying legitimate tax communications, visit our Taxes section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Economic Times.
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