Are We Likely To Get Stimulus Checks Under Trump? What Experts Say
Written by
Angela Mae
Edited by
Amber Barkley
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
If you’ve been on social media this year, you’ve probably seen posts about a $5,000 DOGE stimulus check — called the DOGE Dividend — possibly coming your way. But where would the money come from, and how likely are the American people to get these checks?
The answer to the first question is simple. The $5,000 would theoretically come from the federal savings — which, at the time the DOGE checks were first mentioned, were anticipated to be about $2 trillion — gained from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Approximately a fifth of that would go toward the 79 million Americans who pay federal income tax.
As for whether stimulus checks are likely to be sent out during Trump’s second term, here’s what the experts say.
A Fourth Stimulus Check Is Unlikely
Between 2020 and 2021, the IRS sent out a total of three stimulus checks, or Economic Impact Payments. The deadline for most taxpayers claiming the third and final payment was April 15, 2025.
So, what are the chances of receiving a fourth stimulus check — or the DOGE Dividend? According to experts, it’s pretty unlikely.
“There is almost no realistic scenario where Americans will get a stimulus check under Trump’s current term,” said Nicholas Creel, an associate professor of business law at Georgia College and State University. “The majorities the GOP has in the legislature are paper thin, and a significant contingent of the party is far too concerned with the deficit to allow for that sort of massive spending program any time soon.”
Other experts are inclined to agree.
George Carrillo, co-founder and chief executive officer at the Hispanic Construction Council and former director of social determinants of health for the state of Oregon, noted that federal stimulus checks are unlikely in the near future due to a number of factors, including inflation, budget constraints, no legislative support, no concrete action and a current lack of bipartisan support.
Stimulus Checks Would Be a Short-Term Solution
Stimulus checks are used as a way to jumpstart the economy — more money in taxpayers’ hands potentially means more spending. But generally speaking, these checks are a short-term solution rather than a long-term one.
“I’d equate stimulus checks to the sugar rush you get when eating a lot of candy. Yes, eating candy boosts your energy, but it is short lived and leaves you worse off in the long term,” said Creel. “You’d be far better off in the long term eating a proper diet and exercising, but of course that’s never as fun!”
Carrillo added that floating around the idea of a fourth stimulus check could also be a political move on the part of President Donald Trump.
“It could be a strategic move to win favorability and maintain control of the House and Senate, as financial relief tends to resonate with voters,” he said.
State-Based Financial Relief
Just because there might not be another round of stimulus checks — at least not in the foreseeable future — doesn’t mean there won’t be other financial relief for those who need it.
According to Carrillo, “Some states are stepping up with their own relief programs, so there may be local options to explore.”
For example, New York intends to issue a one-time “inflation refund” check this October. Eligible taxpayers could receive between $150 and $400.
New Mexico is also rolling out its own relief program. State residents who qualify could receive $500 to $1,000.
Editor’s note on political coverage: GOBankingRates is nonpartisan and strives to cover all aspects of the economy objectively and present balanced reports on politically focused finance stories. You can find more coverage of this topic on GOBankingRates.com.
More From GOBankingRates
