IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility Explained – Do You Qualify for the $1,390 Payment?

In 2025, many Americans are once again asking a familiar question: Am I eligible for an IRS stimulus check? While the large pandemic-era payments ended years ago, the IRS has now confirmed a new $1,390 stimulus payment scheduled for late summer 2025.

This guide explains everything you need to know about IRS stimulus checks eligibility—who qualifies, income limits, how payments will be delivered, and what steps you should take to make sure you don’t miss out.

What Is the $1,390 Stimulus Payment?

The IRS has officially announced that a tax-free $1,390 payment will be distributed to eligible Americans in 2025.

Unlike past “economic impact payments,” this one is more limited in scope and is designed to provide extra support to middle- and lower-income households. It will not affect benefits such as Social Security, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs benefits, or food assistance programs like SNAP.

The payment is being processed through the IRS, which means your most recent federal tax return plays a key role in determining whether you qualify.

IRS 2026 Tax Changes

IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility – Income Limits

Eligibility for the $1,390 check is based largely on adjusted gross income (AGI) reported on your 2024 tax return.

Here are the main thresholds:

Single filers: Full payment if AGI is $75,000 or less.

Heads of household: Full payment if AGI is $112,500 or less.

Married couples filing jointly: Full payment if AGI is $150,000 or less.

Payments gradually phase out above these income levels. If your income is too high, you may not receive anything.

Other IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility Rules

Beyond income, several other factors determine eligibility:

Filing a 2024 federal tax return – You must have filed your return to be considered.

Valid Social Security Number (SSN) – Required for all recipients.

Citizenship or residency – You must be a U.S. citizen or qualifying resident alien.

Dependent status – Unlike some earlier stimulus checks, dependents are not expected to qualify separately. The payment is primarily for taxpayers themselves.

How Will the IRS Send the $1,390 Stimulus Check?

The IRS has said payments will be issued in three main ways:

1. Direct deposit – If your bank account information is already on file from your tax return, this will be the fastest method.

2. Paper checks – Sent by mail if no direct deposit details are available.

3. Prepaid debit cards (EIP cards) – Some recipients may receive their payment in this format.

Most eligible Americans should see their money in late summer 2025.

IRS Action Earlier in 2025 – Recovery Rebate Credit

Before this new $1,390 payment, the IRS already sent out additional $1,400 payments in early 2025.

These were related to the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit that some taxpayers had missed when filing. The IRS identified over a million people who qualified but didn’t claim it, and automatically issued the money without requiring an amended return.

This shows that the IRS is actively reviewing past data to ensure taxpayers get what they are owed.

Common Misconceptions About IRS Stimulus Checks in 2025

1. “Everyone will get $2,000.”

This is not true. Rumors of a $2,000 stimulus check have circulated online, but the IRS has not announced such a program. The confirmed amount is $1,390.

2. “You don’t need to file taxes to get it.”

False for most people. Unless you’re receiving federal benefits that automatically qualify you, filing your 2024 tax return is critical.

3. “It will reduce my Social Security or other benefits.”

Incorrect. The IRS confirmed that the $1,390 stimulus payment is tax-free and does not affect benefits like Social Security, Medicaid, or food assistance.

Common Misconceptions About IRS Stimulus Checks in 2025

Step-by-Step: How to Make Sure You Qualify

To ensure you are included for the $1,390 IRS stimulus check:

1. File your 2024 tax return – Even if you don’t normally file, do so before the IRS deadline.

2. Update your direct deposit information – Faster and safer than waiting for a mailed check.

3. Check your IRS Online Account – Track your payment status and eligibility.

4. Beware of scams – The IRS will never ask for money, gift cards, or personal information over email or phone.

IRS Stimulus Checks Eligibility – Who Will Miss Out?

Not everyone will qualify for the $1,390 stimulus check. You may not receive it if:

Your income exceeds the AGI phase-out limits.

You failed to file your 2024 tax return.

You are claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return.

You do not meet citizenship or residency requirements.

Why the IRS Is Sending Stimulus Checks in 2025

The decision for a new payment is tied to inflation pressures and household financial stress. While unemployment remains relatively low, living costs in 2024–2025 have risen sharply—particularly in housing, groceries, and healthcare.

The IRS payment is meant to act as a modest relief for families and individuals struggling with higher daily expenses.

Quick Comparison of Stimulus Payments (2020–2025)

Year / Program Amount per Person Main Eligibility Factor Notes

2020 First Round $1,200 + $500 child AGI ≤ $75k single, $150k joint Pandemic relief

2020 Second Round $600 Same AGI thresholds Pandemic relief

2021 Third Round $1,400 Same AGI thresholds + dependents Pandemic relief

2025 Recovery Rebate (late filing) Up to $1,400 Filed 2021 tax return late Paid Jan 2025

2025 New Stimulus $1,390 AGI ≤ $75k single, $150k joint Tax-free, no impact on benefits

Conclusion

The IRS stimulus checks eligibility rules for the new $1,390 payment are clear: if you filed your 2024 tax return, meet the income thresholds, and have a valid SSN, you are likely to qualify. Payments will begin rolling out in late summer 2025, mainly through direct deposit.

While this payment is smaller than earlier rounds, it still offers valuable relief for families facing higher living costs. The key is to stay compliant with tax filings, monitor your IRS account, and avoid scams.

Actionable Advice

File your 2024 taxes on time, ensure your banking details are up to date with the IRS, and stay alert for official updates. Doing so gives you the best chance of receiving your $1,390 IRS stimulus check without delays.