Scam Alert: IRS $1,390 Relief Payments

The claim about a new, universal IRS $1,390 relief payment is a scam or a persistent, false rumor. Many news sites are making this claim which may lead readers to believe it's true. There is no official program or legislation for a new federal stimulus payment of this amount. Scammers are using this rumor to trick people into providing sensitive personal information.

 The IRS and other officials have confirmed that there is no new $1,390 stimulus or relief program for 2025 or 2026. Any legitimate federal payment requires an act of Congress, which has not passed any such legislation.

 Scammers spread these claims via unsolicited text messages, emails, social media posts, and fake websites to steal your Social Security number, bank details, or other private information.

The IRS primarily initiates contact with taxpayers through official letters or notices sent via the U.S. postal mail, not by unexpected emails, texts, or social media direct messages.

 The rumors are often confused with past, legitimate COVID-19 era stimulus checks (Economic Impact Payments) or state-level relief programs. The deadline to claim the last federal stimulus payment (Recovery Rebate Credit) was April 15, 2025.

How to Protect Yourself

Do Not Click Links: Never click on links in unsolicited messages claiming to be from the IRS or Treasury.

Verify Information: Go directly to the official IRS.gov website for accurate information regarding any potential payments or tax matters.

Do Not Share Information: The IRS will never demand immediate payment using specific methods (like gift cards) or ask for sensitive personal or financial information through phone calls, texts, or emails.

Report Scams: If you receive a suspicious message, report it. You can forward suspicious emails to phishing@irs.gov and text messages to 7726 (SPAM).

Stay cautious and rely only on verified government sources to avoid falling victim to fraud.