Stop everything and read this critical update before you believe any viral post about an IRS $1390 Direct Deposit payment. The truth is, the IRS has NOT announced any $1390 direct deposit relief payment for February 2026. This rumor is based on an unapproved government proposal, not official policy. This guide delivers the confirmed facts, explains the proposal’s status, and shows you the only safe way to get accurate information to protect yourself from widespread scams.
A rumor about a $1390 “tariff dividend” or relief payment has spread rapidly online, causing confusion and hope among many Americans. It is crucial to understand that as of February 2026, no law has been passed by Congress to authorize such a payment, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is not sending out these funds.
What is the Official Status of the $1390 Direct Deposit Payment?
Here is the most important information you need to know right now:
- NOT Approved by Congress: Any new direct payment requires an act of Congress. No such bill has been passed.
- IRS Has NOT Announced It: The Internal Revenue Service has made no official statement about a $1390 relief payment for February 2026.
- It is a Proposal: The idea is part of a political discussion about using tariff revenue. It remains a proposal, not a program.
- No Application Exists: There is no website, form, or “early registration” for this payment because it does not exist.
What is the Proposed $1390 “Tariff Dividend”?
The rumor stems from a theoretical policy idea. Here’s what is being discussed:
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Tariff Revenue | Taxes the U.S. government collects on certain imported goods. |
| Proposed “Dividend” | The idea to distribute a portion of this revenue directly to citizens as a cash payment. |
| Current Status | Only a proposal. It lacks detailed legislation, funding approval, and an implementation plan. |
What Would the Eligibility Be IF It Became Law?
If a law were miraculously passed, eligibility would likely be based on existing stimulus check models. Potential criteria could include:
- U.S. Citizenship/Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Valid Social Security Number: Required for you and any dependents.
- Income Limits: Likely based on Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), potentially phasing out for individuals earning over $75,000-$100,000.
- Tax Filing: You would likely need to have filed a recent tax return.
What is the Official Source for IRS Payment Information?
To avoid dangerous fraud, you must only trust official U.S. government channels:
- The Only Official IRS Website: www.irs.gov
- U.S. Treasury Department: home.treasury.gov
- Congress.gov: To track the status of any real bill.
Ignore all social media posts, YouTube videos, and online articles asking you to “sign up” or “claim” this payment.
What are the Top Scam Warnings to Know?
Scammers are exploiting this rumor aggressively. Protect yourself:
- No Registration Required: The IRS never uses non-governmental websites or forms for “early registration” for new payments.
- No Fees: Anyone asking for a fee, even a small one, to “process” your $1390 payment is a criminal.
- No Unsolicited Contact: The IRS will not call, text, or email you out of the blue about a new payment. They always communicate by mail first.
- Beware of Phishing Links: Do not click links in messages about this payment. They steal personal and financial information.
How Should You Prepare for Real IRS Payments?
While this specific payment is not real, you should always be prepared for legitimate tax refunds or future authorized stimulus:
- File Your Taxes: Ensure your most recent tax return is filed with the IRS.
- Set Up Direct Deposit: The fastest way to receive any real payment is via direct deposit. Provide your banking details on your tax return.
- Update Your Address: Ensure the IRS has your current mailing address on file.
- Monitor Official Sites: Check IRS.gov directly for news, not third-party blogs or social media.
What is the Realistic Timeline if a Law Were Passed?
Even if a proposal gained traction, the timeline would be long:
- Congressional Debate: Weeks or months of discussion and amendments.
- Passage & Signing: The bill must pass the House and Senate and be signed by the President.
- IRS Implementation: The IRS would need several months to update systems and create a distribution plan.
- Conclusion: Payments would not arrive suddenly in February 2026.
Conclusion
The $1390 Direct Deposit Relief Payment for February 2026 is a rumor, not reality. In an era of rampant misinformation, your greatest defense is skepticism and verification. Do not share personal information or engage with content about this payment. Bookmark IRS.gov as your only source of truth. When and if the U.S. government authorizes a new relief payment, it will be announced widely through official, secure channels—not through viral posts. Stay informed, stay safe.
