Many Americans are searching for “IRS confirms $1,390 stimulus check” and “1390 stimulus check update” after seeing viral posts on social media and clickbait headlines. With prices still high and budgets tight, it’s natural to hope a new check is on the way.
But what does this $1,390 payment actually refer to—and is it real?
Below is a clear, fact‑based breakdown designed for U.S. readers, and optimized to help you rank in Google Search and Google Discover.
Is There Really an IRS $1,390 Stimulus Check?
The short answer:
The IRS has not announced any new nationwide stimulus program that guarantees every American a $1,390 stimulus check.
When you see headlines like “IRS confirms $1,390 stimulus check,” they usually mean one of the following:
- A specific tax credit or refund amount for certain filers
- An average payment amount some people are receiving
- A state-level rebate or relief payment, not a federal stimulus
- Or simply misleading clickbait designed to get views
Federal COVID-era stimulus checks (Economic Impact Payments) were for $1,200, $600, and $1,400. Those programs have ended. However, many people can still get money through tax credits and refunds, which can end up being around $1,390—or more—depending on their situation.
Where Could a $1,390 Payment Actually Come From?
Even though there is no new official “$1,390 stimulus check,” you may still be able to receive a payment around that amount from several sources.
1. Federal Tax Refund (Including Credits)
If you file a federal tax return, your refund can easily total around $1,390, especially if you qualify for:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – for low- to moderate-income workers
- Child Tax Credit (CTC) – for eligible parents and guardians
- Additional Child Tax Credit – refundable part of the CTC
- Education credits – like the American Opportunity Tax Credit
Many articles use an “example refund” — say $1,390 — to talk about these programs, which then gets turned into misleading headlines.
2. Recovery Rebate Credit (Missed Stimulus Money)
If you never received one or more of the original COVID stimulus checks, or received less than you qualified for, you might still claim that money through the Recovery Rebate Credit by filing or amending your tax returns for those years (if still allowed).
This is not a new $1,390 check, but for some people, the remaining amount owed ends up around that figure.
3. State-Level Relief Payments or Rebates
Many states have offered their own:
- Inflation relief payments
- Energy rebates
- Property tax refunds
- One-time “stimulus-type” checks
These are handled by state revenue or tax departments, not the IRS, and amounts vary widely. Some states’ average or maximum payments might be reported as “about $1,390,” which can cause confusion.
How to Check If You’re Owed Any Money
Instead of chasing viral claims about a $1,390 stimulus check, focus on checking whether you personally have unclaimed money waiting.
1. Use Official IRS Tools
Go directly to IRS.gov (never through links in random emails or texts) and use:
- “Where’s My Refund?” – track your current-year tax refund
- “Get Transcript” – see records of past tax returns and payments
- IRS Online Account – view balances, notices, and some credit information
If you filed in recent years and qualified for credits, you’ll see your actual refund and payment history there.
2. File a Tax Return Even if Your Income Was Low
Many people with very low income don’t file a return because they’re not required to. That can be a costly mistake.
Filing a simple return can help you claim:
- EITC
- Child Tax Credit
- Any missing stimulus money (via the Recovery Rebate Credit, if still allowed)
Free options include IRS Free File and many Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites.
3. Check State and Local Programs
Search your state’s official revenue or tax department website for:
- “rebate”
- “relief payment”
- “tax refund programs”
Some states also have unclaimed property websites, where you can search your name for money you never received (old checks, refunds, etc.).
How to Avoid Stimulus Check Scams
Whenever “new stimulus check” stories trend, scammers follow.
Watch out for:
- Texts, emails, or DMs claiming: “You qualify for a $1,390 stimulus – click here.”
- Anyone asking for a “processing fee” to unlock your stimulus check
- Requests for payment via gift cards, Cash App, PayPal, Zelle, or crypto
- Fake websites that look like IRS.gov but have slightly different URLs
Important reminders:
- The IRS does not call, text, or email you to ask for your bank details or Social Security number out of the blue.
- Real IRS communications are typically by mail or through your secure IRS online account.
- When in doubt, type IRS.gov directly into your browser and navigate from there.
FAQ: $1,390 Stimulus Check Rumors
Who is eligible for the $1,390 stimulus check?
There is no universal federal program that automatically sends every American a $1,390 stimulus check. Eligibility for any payment depends on:
- Your income
- Whether you file taxes
- Your family situation (children, dependents, etc.)
- Your state of residence and its programs
Is a payment like this taxable?
- Federal stimulus checks from past years were not taxable.
- Tax refunds are usually not taxable, because they’re just a return of your overpaid tax.
- Some state rebates may be taxable or partially taxable depending on IRS guidance.
Always check current IRS publications or speak to a qualified tax professional.
How can I get reliable updates about stimulus or tax credits?
- Bookmark and check IRS.gov for official news
- Follow verified IRS social media accounts
- Rely on reputable news sources, not just viral videos or random blogs
Bottom Line: Focus on Real Money You Can Claim
Headlines like “IRS confirms $1,390 stimulus check” are often confusing or misleading. There is no new nationwide $1,390 check guaranteed for everyone, but there may be real money available to you through:
- Federal tax refunds and credits
- Any missed stimulus payments from past years
- State-level rebates or relief programs
The smartest move is to:
- File all required tax returns
- Use official IRS tools to track refunds and credits
- Check your state’s website for local programs
- Ignore scams and clickbait, and rely on trusted sources
If you’re unsure whether you’ve claimed everything you’re eligible for, consider talking to a certified tax professional or a free tax clinic in your area.