Millions of Americans are waking up to unexpected deposits in their bank accounts as the IRS begins releasing a new wave of stimulus payments this week. While this is not a brand-new federal relief program, it’s part of the IRS’s ongoing effort to distribute missed or delayed payments from the previous Recovery Rebate Credit. If you’ve been waiting for money you were owed, now is the time to check your account — your stimulus check may have already arrived.
IRS Confirms Payments Are Being Processed
According to official updates, the IRS has started sending out stimulus payments connected to the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. These payments are being distributed to taxpayers who either didn’t receive their full amount previously or failed to claim their credit on their 2021 tax return. The payment amounts can be as high as $1,400 per person, depending on income and eligibility. The funds are being directly deposited into eligible recipients’ bank accounts this week, while others will receive paper checks in the mail soon.
Why These Stimulus Checks Are Arriving Now
These new payments are part of the IRS’s correction and verification process to ensure that every qualified American receives the relief funds they were originally entitled to. Many people missed out on their stimulus checks due to filing errors, unsubmitted tax returns, or technical issues with prior payments. To fix that, the IRS has reviewed millions of records and begun issuing refunds and direct deposits to those who meet the criteria.
Who Qualifies for These Surprise Deposits
To qualify for this new round of stimulus deposits, individuals must meet specific requirements:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or resident with a valid Social Security number.
- You must not be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return.
- Your income must fall within the original limits set for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- You must not have already received the full stimulus amount.
If you filed a 2021 tax return and were eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit but never received it, you are likely on the list to get your payment. The IRS will automatically process the deposit without requiring additional paperwork.
How to Check If You’re Getting Paid
If you want to confirm whether your payment has been issued, check your most recent bank statement or log in to your IRS online account. Those with direct deposit information on file will see the payment first. For taxpayers without direct deposit, paper checks will follow in the coming days. If your payment doesn’t arrive immediately, don’t panic — deposits are being processed in batches throughout the week.
What to Do If You Don’t See a Payment
If you haven’t received a payment but believe you qualify, you can take a few steps:
- Review your 2021 tax return to confirm whether you claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit.
- If you never filed a 2021 return, file one now to claim any credits you missed.
- Ensure your banking information and mailing address are current with the IRS.
- Avoid scams — the IRS will never contact you by phone, text, or email asking for personal details.
What This Means for Most Americans
While this round of payments is not part of a new stimulus bill, it’s a welcome surprise for many who were left out before. The IRS is finalizing its effort to ensure all eligible taxpayers receive every dollar they were owed. If you see an unexpected deposit labeled “IRS TREAS 310” or “TAX REF,” it could be your stimulus payment hitting your account.
FAQs
1. Are these new stimulus payments?
No, these are not part of a new stimulus package. They are delayed or missed payments from the previous Recovery Rebate Credit program.
2. How much money can I receive?
Eligible taxpayers may receive up to $1,400 per person, depending on previous payments and income qualifications.
3. Do I need to do anything to get my payment?
If the IRS already has your correct tax and banking information, you don’t need to take any action — payments will be sent automatically.
4. When will I receive my payment?
Many direct deposits are being processed this week. Paper checks will follow shortly for those without direct deposit set up.
5. Who qualifies for these payments?
U.S. citizens or residents with a valid Social Security number, who were not claimed as dependents, and who meet the income limits set by the Recovery Rebate Credit program.