Social media posts claiming that the IRS has approved $1,390 stimulus checks for millions of Americans in 2025 have sparked widespread excitement. However, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has debunked these claims, confirming no such payments are planned. This guide clarifies the facts, explores why the rumor spread, and provides tips to avoid scams related to stimulus payments.
What Are the $1390 Stimulus Check Claims?
Viral posts on platforms like X and Facebook have claimed that the IRS and U.S. Treasury Department are set to distribute $1,390 stimulus checks to low- and middle-income households in late summer 2025. These posts often cite unverified sources and suggest the payments are tax-free and automatic. The IRS has firmly stated that these claims are false, with no new stimulus program authorized for 2025.
Why the Rumor Started
The $1,390 stimulus check rumor likely stems from a misunderstanding of an earlier IRS initiative. In early 2025, the IRS distributed $2.4 billion to taxpayers who missed claiming the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, worth up to $1,400 per person. The deadline to claim this credit was April 15, 2025, and no new credits have been announced since. Misleading social media posts may have confused this past program with a new stimulus effort, fueling speculation.
Additionally, economic uncertainty and nostalgia for COVID-era stimulus payments (2020–2021) have made people eager to believe in new relief. AI-generated images mimicking IRS notices have further amplified the misinformation.
The Facts About Stimulus Payments
Here are the key facts to understand:
- No Congressional Approval: New stimulus checks require legislation from Congress. No such bill was passed in 2024 or 2025.
- Past Stimulus Programs: The last federal stimulus payments were issued under the CARES Act ($1,200 in 2020), COVID-related Tax Relief Act ($600 in 2020), and American Rescue Plan Act ($1,400 in 2021). The 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit was the final related program, with claims closed in April 2025.
- No IRS Announcements: The IRS has not announced any new stimulus checks for 2025. Official updates are only posted on IRS.gov.
Proposed Legislation and Its Status
Senator Josh Hawley introduced the American Worker Rebate Act in July 2025, proposing rebates of at least $600 per taxpayer, funded by tariff revenues, with extra payments for families with children. However, this bill remains in the Senate Finance Committee and has not advanced in either the Senate or House. Without congressional approval, no payments can be issued.
Supporters, including Hawley, argue the rebates would provide relief similar to past stimulus checks. Critics highlight that tariff revenue is unpredictable and insufficient to fund such a program without legislative backing.
How to Spot Stimulus Check Scams
The IRS warns that scammers exploit stimulus rumors to steal personal information. Watch for these red flags:
- Unrealistic Promises: Claims of guaranteed large payments, like $1,390, without official IRS confirmation. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
- Threats or Pressure: Scammers may demand immediate payment or personal details, threatening arrest or deportation. The IRS never uses such tactics.
- Suspicious Links: Fake websites mimicking IRS.gov or misspelled URLs can install malware or collect sensitive data.
To stay safe, verify information only through IRS.gov or by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040. Report scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at 800-366-4484.
What to Do Next
To protect yourself and stay informed:
- Check Official Sources: Visit IRS.gov for updates on tax credits or payments.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Info: Never provide Social Security numbers or bank details to unverified sources.
- Monitor Legislation: Track bills like the American Worker Rebate Act on Congress.gov for potential future relief.
- Explore Other Aid: Look into state-specific programs, such as Alaska’s $1,702 Permanent Fund Dividend or California’s inflation relief rebates.
The $1,390 stimulus check rumor is false, and no federal payments are scheduled for 2025. By relying on official IRS and government sources, you can avoid misinformation and scams while staying updated on legitimate financial support options.
FAQs About $1390 Stimulus Check 2025
A: No, the IRS has confirmed no new stimulus checks are planned.
A: The rumor likely comes from confusion with the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, which had a claim deadline of April 15, 2025.
A: No, no legislation for new stimulus payments passed in 2024 or 2025.
A: Use the “Where’s My Refund” tool on IRS.gov or call 800-829-1954 for refund inquiries.
A: Report it to TIGTA at 800-366-4484 and avoid sharing personal information.
