Social media posts and several online articles are claiming that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will issue a $1,390 direct deposit relief payment in November 2025 to help Americans struggling with rising living costs. These claims suggest that the payment will automatically reach eligible taxpayers, including low-income earners and Social Security recipients, without requiring an application.
However, a review of the official IRS announcements available on the agency’s website shows no confirmation or press release supporting this claim. The IRS has not issued any public statement authorizing such a payment, and there is no new federal law that would approve additional economic relief at this time.
This fact-check examines the origins of the $1,390 claim, official statements from federal sources, and what taxpayers should know about legitimate IRS relief programs.
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What the $1,390 Claim States
The claim circulating widely online alleges that the IRS has announced a one-time $1,390 “inflation relief” payment to support Americans affected by higher grocery, rent, healthcare, and utility costs. The payment is said to target single filers earning under $75,000 and married couples earning under $150,000. Additionally, reports claim that Social Security, SSI, and SSDI recipients would automatically receive the funds through their regular deposit channels.
These viral posts often feature official-sounding language, using phrases such as “direct deposit confirmed,” “November rollout,” or “automatic IRS payment.” Some include doctored screenshots mimicking legitimate IRS updates or referencing previous federal stimulus programs, which adds to the confusion.
What the Official Sources Say
The IRS newsroom and Treasury Department websites contain no record of any $1,390 relief payment scheduled for November 2025. The agency’s verified press releases and official updates show no mention of a new stimulus or relief initiative.
Additionally, the U.S. Congress has not passed any legislation authorizing additional federal relief funds this year. The last major federal payment program was the pandemic-era Economic Impact Payment, which concluded in 2021. Later, some taxpayers still qualified for the Recovery Rebate Credit, but that program ended after the April 15, 2025 filing deadline.
Fact-checking organizations, including AP News and Reuters, have also reviewed these viral reports and found no credible evidence that the IRS is sending any new direct deposits in November 2025.
Common Features of the False Claim
Several versions of this claim share similar details that make them appear authentic. Many posts refer to the same eligibility thresholds as prior relief programs and even include estimated delivery dates such as “early November 2025.”
| Claimed Information | Fact-Checked Status |
|---|---|
| IRS will send $1,390 to all qualified taxpayers in November 2025 | False – No official IRS announcement |
| Payments will go out automatically via direct deposit | False – Not verified by federal sources |
| Program approved by Congress to fight inflation | False – No congressional authorization |
| Social Security and SSI beneficiaries automatically included | Unconfirmed – Not mentioned by SSA or IRS |
| Tracking available via “Get My Payment” tool | Misleading – Tool currently inactive for relief checks |
The IRS currently uses direct deposit for legitimate refunds, Child Tax Credit payments, and tax refunds—but no new relief payment has been authorized under this name or amount.
Why the $1,390 Payment Rumor Spread
Experts point to several reasons why the rumor gained traction. The amount—$1,390—closely resembles the $1,400 stimulus checks issued under the American Rescue Plan in 2021. This similarity has likely caused confusion among readers who assume a new round of payments is being released.
Additionally, misleading blogs and social media accounts often recycle old IRS-related articles, replacing dates and figures to make them appear current. Some of these sites aim to drive web traffic or collect personal data from unsuspecting users.
The IRS has previously warned taxpayers to be wary of scam emails, texts, or messages promising “new stimulus payments.” Citizens should remember that the IRS never initiates contact via phone, text, or email to offer payments or request sensitive information.
What the IRS Actually Offers Right Now
While there is no $1,390 federal payment, Americans may still qualify for legitimate financial programs and credits administered by the IRS or state governments. These include:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): For low- to moderate-income workers, offering refunds up to several thousand dollars depending on income and family size.
- Child Tax Credit (CTC): Providing annual benefits per qualifying child under age 17.
- Energy and Homeowner Tax Credits: Available for specific clean energy or housing improvements in 2025.
Taxpayers can visit the official IRS resource page at www.irs.gov/credits-deductions to explore available programs.
How to Stay Protected from IRS Scams
To prevent fraud and identity theft, the IRS and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) urge Americans to remain cautious when encountering claims of new government payments.
- Check all IRS updates directly at www.irs.gov/newsroom.
- Never click links in emails or messages claiming to confirm payments.
- Report any suspicious contact to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at www.tigta.gov.
- Use secure login credentials for official government portals only.
After reviewing available evidence, official government websites, and fact-check reports, the claim that the IRS will issue a $1,390 direct deposit relief payment in November 2025 is false. There is no legislation, press release, or official IRS statement confirming any such payment.
The only reliable information on payments, credits, and refunds remains available through the official IRS website. Taxpayers should remain alert to misinformation and scams that use IRS branding or logos to create false legitimacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the $1,390 IRS payment rumor about?
It’s a false claim circulating online that suggests the IRS will send a $1,390 direct deposit to Americans in November 2025. No official announcement or law supports this.
Has the IRS confirmed the $1,390 payment?
No. The IRS has not issued any confirmation, and its newsroom lists no new relief programs for 2025.
Who started spreading the $1,390 claim?
The claim appears to have originated from social media and non-official blogs reusing old IRS articles. Fact-checking outlets have debunked these posts.
What real benefits can taxpayers still access in 2025?
Legitimate programs include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and clean energy incentives. Full details are available at www.irs.gov/credits-deductions.
How can citizens protect themselves from scams?
Avoid clicking links or sharing personal details through unsolicited messages. Always confirm information through official IRS domains ending in “.gov.”