The idea of DOGE stimulus checks, known as “DOGE Dividends“, was proposed by James Fishback, CEO of Azoria, who suggested returning 20% of DOGE savings to taxpayers. DOGE seeks to optimize government operations and reduce expenses, with a goal of $2 billion in 18 months. Fishback posted the idea on X, and Musk responded “I’ll check with the President.” Trump expressed support in a speech in Miami on February 19, 2025, evoking COVID-19 pandemic stimulus checks, which Trump marked with his name for political visibility.
Fishback argued that the initiative rebuilds government trust by returning funds perceived as misused. However, Musk tempered expectations in January 2025, stating that $2 trillion is a “best case scenario,” with the possibility of cutting $1 trillion.
Trump considers $5,000 DOGE stimulus checks
As of March 18, 2025, no official steps have been taken to implement the checks. Trump described the idea as “under consideration,” suggesting $5,000 checks per taxpaying household if DOGE meets targets. However, recent CBO data shows a $1.1 trillion shortfall in the first five months of Fiscal Year 2025, calling into question the savings needed.
Experts like Ernie Tedeschi of the Yale Budget Lab argue that the size of the checks is “disproportionate to the cuts,” with current savings of $115 billion, translating to $142 per taxpayer if they were distributed today. Congressional approval is required, and House Speaker Mike Johnson prefers to use savings to reduce debt, citing fiscal responsibility.
Fishback expressed optimism in March 2025, saying a bill is “on the way,” but no legislative text has been introduced, at least as of this writing.
The proposed checks would target taxpaying households, specifically net payers of federal taxes, excluding many low-income households who pay little or nothing, according to data from the Pew Research Center. This contrasts with COVID-19 stimulus checks, which prioritized low-income households. Fishback’s plan estimates 79 million qualifying households, potentially receiving $5,000 each, based on $400 billion in savings.
This is how stimulus checks can improve your household’s and America’s economy
The stimulus checks implemented in the United States during and after the COVID-19 pandemic had multiple benefits, both economic and social. During the pandemic, for example, they provided liquidity to millions of people to cover basic needs such as food, rent, utilities, and debt. This was crucial for low-income families, who often lack emergency savings.
Studies from the Urban Institute and the Census Bureau showed that, despite the recession, poverty in the US decreased in 2020. This was attributed in part to stimulus and complementary programs such as expanded unemployment benefits that began in the first Trump administration and continued during Joe Biden’s term.
The money injected into the economy maintained demand for goods and services, preventing a further collapse. Sectors such as retail trade and essential services benefited directly. They reduced financial stress in households, mitigating mental health crises and social conflicts. This was especially relevant in a context of uncertainty and isolation.
By maintaining the purchasing power of consumers, many local businesses were able to survive thanks to online sales or essential services and that, in turn, kept the economy of these micro and small entrepreneurs active. The US experienced a faster rebound compared to previous recessions. In 2021, GDP grew by 5.7%, driven by spending in sectors such as tourism, restaurants, and leisure as the economy reopened.