The topic of 1390 stimulus checks has surged across social media, leading many families to wonder if a new federal payment is on the way. While viral posts often promise a direct deposit of this specific amount, federal agencies have clarified that no legislation currently authorizes a nationwide payment of $1,390. Instead, this figure appears to be a mix of average tax refund amounts, specific state rebates, and older economic data.

Key Takeaways

• Federal Clarification: The IRS has confirmed there is no new federal law authorizing a standalone "1390 stimulus check" for all Americans.
• Origin of the Number: The $1,390 figure likely conflates average tax refunds or specific state programs, such as past Economic Impact Payments or state-level surplus rebates.
• Real Financial Boosts: While a federal check isn't coming, millions will see more money through the 2.8% Social Security COLA and increased tax credits like the EITC.
• State-Level Aid: Residents in states like Alaska, Georgia, and Minnesota have access to legitimate surplus refunds and rebates that can equal or exceed the rumored amount.
• Stay Safe: Government agencies never announce payments via unsolicited text messages; always verify claims through official.gov websites.

Analyzing the 1390 Stimulus Checks Rumor

Understanding the source of the 1390 stimulus checks rumor is essential for financial planning. Unlike official government bills which usually propose round numbers like $600 or $1,000, the specificity of $1,390 points to a calculated average rather than a legislative proposal.

Why This Number Went Viral

Financial experts suggest this figure is likely an aggregate of different financial data points. Misinformation often spreads when complex tax details are simplified for social media engagement.

• Average Tax Refunds: Early tax season data often shows average refunds hovering in the low-to-mid $1,000 range.
• State Rebate Confusion: Specific state payments, such as Arizona's family rebate which maxed out at $1,500 for some families, are easily confused with federal promises.
• Old Stimulus Data: The residual value of the 2021 payment ($1,400) is often discussed in the context of "unclaimed funds," leading to confusion. 

No Federal Legislation Exists

For a new stimulus check to reach your bank account, it must pass through Congress and be signed by the President. Currently, there is no bill on the floor proposing a $1,390 direct payment. The "American Worker Rebate Act" was a proposal for tariff-funded checks, but it has not become law.

Real Federal Financial Support Available

While a specific 1390 stimulus check is a myth, the federal government has adjusted the tax code to provide significant financial relief. These adjustments often result in larger refunds, which can feel like a stimulus payment when they arrive.

Enhanced Standard Deductions

The IRS has increased the Standard Deduction to account for inflation, shielding more of your income from taxes. This means many households will owe less and potentially receive more back at tax time.

• Married Filing Jointly: The deduction has increased to $32,200.
• Single Filers: The deduction is now $16,100.
• Heads of Household: The deduction stands at $24,150.

Powerful Refundable Credits

The most effective way to receive a lump sum of cash from the government is through refundable tax credits. These credits can reduce your tax bill to zero and result in a refund for the remaining amount.

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Families with three or more children could receive over $8,000 if they qualify.
• Child Tax Credit (CTC): This credit remains a primary vehicle for family support, offering up to $2,000 per qualifying child.
• Adoption Credit: Families who adopted may qualify for a credit of over $17,600, with a portion potentially being refundable.

Social Security and SSI Adjustments

For retirees and individuals with disabilities, the "stimulus" comes in the form of a permanent increase in monthly benefits. The SSA has announced a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) to help beneficiaries keep pace with inflation.

The 2.8% COLA Increase

Starting in January, Social Security benefits increased by 2.8%. This adjustment is automatic and does not require an application.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Recipients of SSI also see increased federal payment standards.

• Individuals: The new federal standard is $994 per month.
• Couples: The standard has risen to $1,491 per month.
• Clarification: Rumors of a separate bonus check for SSI recipients are false; the increase is built into the regular monthly deposit.

Verified State Stimulus and Rebates

The most likely source of a "surprise" payment comes from state governments returning budget surpluses to residents. These programs vary by location and often match the 1390 stimulus checks search intent due to their similar dollar amounts.

Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend

Alaska residents receive an annual dividend from the state's mineral wealth.

• Payment Amount: The dividend is set at $1,000 per eligible resident.
• Eligibility: You must be a resident for the full calendar year preceding the application.
• Timeline: Payments typically begin distribution in October.

Minnesota Child Tax Credit

Minnesota has enacted a robust state-level credit that rivals federal amounts.

• Amount: Up to $1,750 per child.
• Impact: For a low-income family with one child, this single payment exceeds the rumored $1,390 figure.
• Delivery: This is claimed when filing your state income tax return.

Georgia Surplus Refund

Georgia continues to return surplus tax revenue to its citizens.

• Single Filers: Eligible for up to $250.
• Married Couples: Eligible for up to $500.
• Requirement: You must have filed tax returns for the previous two years to qualify for this automatic refund.

Arizona Families Tax Rebate

This rebate was a one-time payment that targeted families with dependents.

• Structure: Payments were issued for $250 per dependent under 17.
• Maximum: Families could claim up to three dependents, capping the payment at $750 for singles or $1,500 for married couples.

Protecting Yourself from Scams

The excitement surrounding potential 1390 stimulus checks creates an opportunity for scammers. It is vital to recognize the signs of fraud to protect your financial and personal information.

• Ignore "Pending Deposit" Texts: The IRS does not send text messages about refunds or payment status.
• Verify the Source: Scammers often use look-alike websites. Always ensure you are on a .gov domain before entering any data.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive a phishing attempt, report it immediately to the Federal Trade Commission at their report fraud portal.

Strategic Steps to Access Funds

Waiting for a rumored check is not an effective financial strategy. Instead, take proactive steps to ensure you receive all the legitimate money owed to you.

1. File Your Taxes Early: Even if you owe nothing, filing is the only way to trigger refunds for credits like the EITC and CTC.
2. Check for Unclaimed Property: Billions of dollars in old bank accounts and utility deposits sit unclaimed. Visit unclaimed property databases to search for your name.
3. Update Your Address: Ensure your state revenue department has your current address so you don't miss out on automatic surplus rebates.
4. Review Withholdings: Adjust your W-4 form to ensure you aren't overpaying taxes from your paycheck, which puts more money in your pocket immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions