The IRS $1,390 stimulus check for 2025 has sparked a wave of attention across social media and news platforms. Many Americans are curious if this is a brand-new payment program meant to ease the rising cost of living at the end of the year. The truth is that this payment is part of the unclaimed Recovery Rebate Credits from 2021. While viral claims suggest sudden payouts, these funds are actually leftover amounts from previous stimulus programs, and understanding them can help you determine if money is still owed to you.
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What the $1,390 Stimulus Check Really Means
The $1,390 stimulus check is not a new government program. It represents the remaining portion of the 2021 Economic Impact Payment that some taxpayers never received. Many Americans either missed the third round of payments or were unaware of their eligibility for the Recovery Rebate Credit when filing their taxes in 2021. Over time, these unclaimed amounts have resurfaced, creating confusion about whether new federal payouts are being issued in 2025.
For taxpayers who meet the original eligibility criteria, this credit can still provide financial relief. While the buzz online created false hope of a November payout, the IRS has already processed these funds for eligible individuals during December 2024 and January 2025. Understanding how the stimulus works and checking your records ensures that you don’t miss out on any remaining credit.
A Look Back, Previous Stimulus Payments
The federal government issued three major rounds of stimulus payments between 2020 and 2021 to help households cope with the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The first payment provided $1,200, followed by a $600 second payment, and the third round gave $1,400 per eligible adult through the American Rescue Plan. These payments helped millions of Americans cover essential expenses such as rent, groceries, and utility bills.
To allow individuals who missed their payments to claim them, the IRS introduced the Recovery Rebate Credit. This allowed taxpayers to request the remaining amount on their 2021 tax return. Even in 2025, the IRS continues to process unclaimed credits, which is the source of the $1,390 stimulus discussion today.
| Stimulus Round | Amount per Adult | Total Distributed | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| First 2020 | $1,200 | $267 billion | March–April 2020 |
| Second 2020 | $600 | $146 billion | Dec 2020–Jan 2021 |
| Third 2021 | $1,400 | $411 billion | Mar–May 2021 |
| Recovery 2025 | Up to $1,400 | $1–2 billion unclaimed | Dec 2024–Jan 2025 |
Why This Payment Still Matters
Even though the payment is from unclaimed funds, it still holds importance for many families. With living costs rising, households continue to face challenges covering monthly bills. The $1,390 stimulus check highlights that a portion of taxpayer money remains unclaimed, and those eligible can benefit from this extra financial support.
While online rumors exaggerated the situation, the underlying fact is clear: the IRS is still distributing funds owed from previous stimulus programs. Understanding eligibility, checking records, and ensuring your bank information is up-to-date are critical steps to make sure you receive the full amount you’re entitled to.
Who Can Claim the $1,390 Stimulus
Eligibility for this payment is based on the 2021 rules. To qualify, you must have been a U.S. resident in 2021, had a valid Social Security Number, and earned less than $75,000 as a single filer or $150,000 as a joint filer. Those who received the full third round of payments are not eligible for any additional funds. The IRS automatically processed payments for taxpayers who submitted complete 2021 returns, but the final opportunity to claim missing funds through amended returns ended on April 15, 2025.
It is also important to note that direct deposits are faster than mailed checks, and having updated bank details on file can help avoid delays. While there are no new payment deadlines for 2025, verifying your tax filings is essential to ensure no money remains unclaimed.
How to Avoid Scams
Stimulus payments have unfortunately become a target for scammers. Reports indicate an increase in phishing attempts, fake calls, and fraudulent websites claiming to provide the $1,390 stimulus. To protect yourself, always check information directly on IRS.gov, avoid sharing personal or banking information with unsolicited contacts, and never trust emails or messages that claim they can secure a stimulus payment for you.
Keeping awareness high and only using official IRS tools is the safest way to check eligibility, track payments, and avoid losing personal information to scams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the $1,390 IRS stimulus check a new payment program?
No, it is part of unclaimed Recovery Rebate Credits from 2021 and not a newly issued stimulus.
Q2: Can I still file for the missing stimulus check in 2025?
No, the deadline to file an amended 2021 tax return was April 15, 2025.
Q3: How do I know if I received my full payment?
You can check using the IRS “Get My Payment” tool online and reviewing your 2021 tax filings.
Q4: Are direct deposits faster than mailed checks?
Yes, most direct deposits arrive within three weeks of processing, while mailed checks may take longer.
Q5: How can I avoid stimulus-related scams?
Always verify information on IRS.gov. Never share personal or banking details with unsolicited emails, messages, or phone calls.
Q6: What should I do if I think I am owed money?
Check your 2021 tax return records and use IRS tools to confirm your Recovery Rebate Credit. If necessary, contact the IRS directly for clarification.
