Trump shares new update about $2,000 checks he promised to almost everyone in America
How much could the government really give?
Estimates from non-partisan groups suggest potential complications. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget points out that while tariffs might raise roughly $300 billion per year, dividend payments could cost around $600 billion per round.
Why the dividend?
Trump has long argued that Americans have indirectly paid for tariffs, which could justify giving money back to citizens:
“May in some cases [tariffs] raise prices… to a large extent … have been borne by other countries,” he said, while also signing an order exempting certain agricultural products from tariffs.
Essentially, the checks are framed as a reward to the American people for tariff contributions, though experts caution that repealing the tariffs might be a simpler way to provide relief.
Bottom line
In November, Trump pledged to send dividend checks to “individuals of moderate income” sometime in 2026, ahead of the midterm elections.
But for now, the $2,000 tariff dividend is more promise than reality. Trump has repeatedly highlighted it in Cabinet meetings and public appearances, painting it as a win for middle-income Americans and a tool to reduce debt.
But the plan will require legislation, and economists warn that the projected revenue may not cover the proposed payouts.
Still, Americans are watching closely — and the idea of a $2,000 check hitting their accounts in 2026 is already stirring excitement.
