Over the past year, the inflation rate in the US has been rising steadily, affecting the lives of ordinary people. Amid this financial strain, the $1,390 direct deposit relief payment from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has brought hope to millions.
The goal of this new relief programme is to help people cover basic expenses, pay off debts, and regain financial stability by the end of the year. The money will be deposited directly into bank accounts, eliminating the need for paper cheques and long waiting times.
What is the new plan?
The government launched this relief programme to reduce the impact of inflation. It is different from the pandemic stimulus checks; those were given to almost all citizens, while this new programme targets only those most affected by rising prices.
The IRS plans to use its current taxpayer database and digital payment systems to distribute the money quickly and securely. This initiative is not a one-time effort but part of the government’s ongoing plan to support citizens during tough economic times.
The payment amount depends on a person’s income, tax status, and the credits or deductions claimed on their 2024 tax return.
Eligibility
The IRS has set clear rules to ensure that help goes to those who truly need it:
Single Tax File – Annual income less than $75,000 – $1390
Joint Filer (Married Couple) – Combined income less than $150,000 – $2780
Dependents – Partial credit depending on status – Variable
Social Security Beneficiaries – Automatic payment via direct deposit – $1390
If you filed your 2024 tax return on time and meet the income limits above, you do not need to take any extra steps. The IRS will automatically deposit the money into your existing bank account.
People receiving Social Security, SSI (Supplemental Security Income), or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) will also get the payment automatically.
According to the IRS, relief payments will begin in November 2025, starting with those who already have bank information on file. It usually takes 3 to 5 business days for the funds to appear in your bank account after the payment is made. Those receiving paper cheques may have to wait longer due to postal processing times.
The IRS will also update its “Get My Payment” portal so individuals can check their payment status. The goal is to finish distributing all payments by mid-November 2025, allowing people to benefit before Thanksgiving and the holiday season.
How to check payment status
The IRS’s official website offers two tools to check payment updates: Where’s My Refund, Get My Payment.
You will need to enter the last four digits of your Social Security number, your tax filing status, and other required details.
If you have changed your bank account or personal information, update it right away to avoid payment delays. Bank processing times may differ, so it could take a few days for funds to show in your account.
Unlike the COVID-19 stimulus checks, this $1,390 relief payment is targeted, meant only for citizens directly impacted by inflation.
Payments are handled through the tax and Social Security systems to reduce fraud and ensure a faster, more secure process. This plan provides both immediate help and a responsible step toward long-term financial stability.
Status of other proposed relief programs
Tariff Revenue Rebate: President Trump has suggested $2,000 rebate cheques funded by tariff earnings. On Truth Social on November 9th, he said, “A dividend of at least $2000 a person (not including high-income people!) will be paid to everyone.” However, administration officials have not confirmed any details.
The DOGE Dividend: When President Trump partnered with Elon Musk to create the Department of Government Efficiency, there was talk of $5,000 dividend cheques funded by government savings. The estimated $2 trillion in savings currently totals about $214 billion, but there have been no further updates on issuing dividend checks.
The American worker rebate: Introduced by Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri, this proposal would send at least $600 to each adult and child in a household. It is still under review in the Senate Finance Committee.