Trump’s Treasury Secretary Reveals Who Will Be Eligible For The $2,000 Tariff Dividend

Bessent has also indicated that the initial rollout may not involve physical checks.

Instead, he suggested the benefits could first appear as tax reductions—such as no tax on tips, overtime, or Social Security income, and deductions for auto loans—before transitioning to direct payments.

He also previewed upcoming policy changes, including larger tax refunds anticipated in early 2026 and a $1,000 “birth investment account” for children born in 2026, with applications opening in July.

Eligibility for the rebate is still unclear.

Trump has not defined what counts as “high income,” and no formal thresholds have been announced.

For perspective, analysts looking at a CARES-Act–style model assume the full benefit could go to individuals earning up to $75,000 and couples up to $150,000—standards used during the 2020 stimulus programs.

Congress, however, remains the deciding factor.

No legislation for Trump’s $2,000 tariff checks has been introduced, though Sen. Josh Hawley did propose a smaller rebate—$600 per adult and child—in July.

As for the much-discussed DOGE checks, the program is still far short of its $2 trillion savings target. As of Nov. 17, the DOGE “Wall of Receipts” cites approximately $214 billion saved—barely a fraction of the amount needed.

Bottom line:

Americans will not receive a tariff rebate until Congress acts, the Supreme Court rules, and the financing structure is resolved. For now, the administration insists the plan is alive—but there is no timeline for when money might actually reach taxpayers.