The IRS has announced a $1,390 direct deposit relief payment scheduled for January 2025. This article explains who may qualify, how the payment will be delivered, and practical steps to confirm or update payment details.
IRS Announces $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment For January 2025: Who Is Eligible
The announcement targets individuals and households meeting specific income and filing criteria established by federal guidance. Eligibility is generally based on recent tax returns, benefits records, or program enrollment data the IRS uses to verify recipients.
Common eligibility groups include low- to moderate-income taxpayers, recipients of certain federal benefits, and taxpayers who claimed specific credits on recent returns. Exact eligibility rules may vary and are defined in the IRS notice related to this payment.
Key eligibility factors for the $1390 payment
- Recent filing status and adjusted gross income (AGI) on a tax return.
- Enrollment in qualifying federal benefit programs, where applicable.
- Absence of disqualifying conditions such as ineligible filing status.
How the $1390 Direct Deposit Payment Will Be Sent
The IRS plans to send the relief payment by direct deposit to bank accounts already on file. If a direct deposit is not available, a paper check or prepaid debit card may be mailed instead.
Direct deposit is typically the fastest method. The IRS uses account information from past tax returns, prior stimulus payments, or enrolled benefit program records.
What to check before January 2025
- Confirm that the IRS has your current bank account on file from your most recent tax return or direct deposit authorization.
- Review your most recent IRS notices for any messages about scheduled payments.
- Check your mail for communications that could affect delivery method.
The IRS often uses direct deposit data from previously filed tax returns. If you switched banks after filing, you may need to update your bank information with the IRS before payments are issued.
How to Confirm or Update Your Direct Deposit Information
You cannot add or change bank details for a payment once the IRS has begun issuing payments. However, you can take steps now to ensure future deposits land in the right account.
Key actions include verifying your IRS online account, checking your last tax return for the bank routing and account numbers you used, and confirming with your bank that the account is active.
Steps to verify account information
- Create or sign in to your IRS online account at IRS.gov to view payment history and account settings.
- Compare the bank account used for previous direct deposits with your current account statement.
- Contact your bank promptly if you suspect fraud or closed-account issues.
Timeline and When to Expect the $1390 Payment
The IRS schedules payments in batches. If you qualify, your payment should arrive in January 2025 either by direct deposit or mail, depending on the delivery method assigned to you.
Processing times vary by batch. Direct deposits often land sooner than mailed checks or prepaid cards.
Typical timeline details
- IRS posts general issuance windows in advance; check IRS.gov for official dates.
- Direct deposits generally appear on the posted date, but banks may take an additional business day to post funds.
- Mailed checks can take several weeks after issuance to arrive.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive the Payment
If your payment does not arrive by the expected date, first confirm your eligibility and the delivery method shown in your IRS account. Don’t assume immediate denial — there are common reasons for delay.
If the IRS shows a payment was issued to an old account, contact the IRS and your bank immediately. Keep records of notices, bank statements, and communications.
Steps if payment is missing
- Check IRS.gov “Get My Payment” or your IRS online account for status updates.
- Confirm bank account activity and contact the bank if a deposit was rejected.
- Gather documents such as recent tax returns and IRS letters before contacting IRS support.
Small Real-World Example
Maria, a single parent who filed taxes in 2023, saw a pending deposit notice in her IRS online account. The IRS used the direct deposit info from her 2023 return and the funds appeared in her bank account two business days after the IRS issued the batch.
Maria confirmed her eligibility by reviewing the tax return copy she kept and saved the IRS notice. When a neighbor with an older closed account did not receive a deposit, that neighbor contacted their bank and the IRS, which resolved the issue after verifying identity and providing updated account routing details for future payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the $1390 payment taxable?
The IRS usually specifies the tax treatment for relief payments. Check the official IRS notice for whether this payment is taxable or excluded from income before filing your tax return.
Can I opt out or change the amount?
No. The payment amount and recipients are set by federal rules and cannot be altered by recipients. If you believe the payment amount is incorrect, follow IRS guidance for disputes or corrections.
Final Steps and Practical Tips
Monitor official IRS channels and your online IRS account for the most accurate status updates. Avoid third-party services that promise early access or guarantees for a fee.
Keep documentation handy, confirm your bank account status, and watch for mailed notices if direct deposit is not available. These practical steps help reduce delays and resolve issues faster.
For the latest official details, consult IRS.gov and review the IRS notices related to the January 2025 relief payment.
