President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that he intends to give nearly every American a $2,000 “dividend,” which he claims is made possible by revenue generated from his tariff policies. He argued that tariffs have strengthened the U.S. economy, citing low inflation, record stock market performance, and increased manufacturing investment as proof that the country is now wealthy enough to distribute payments to the public. His message framed tariffs as the primary driver of U.S. prosperity.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent later stated that eligibility for the proposed payout may be limited based on income. He suggested families earning under $100,000 could qualify, though the threshold is still under discussion. If adopted, this income cap would make roughly 150 million Americans eligible, representing a broader group than that covered by past stimulus efforts. Estimates suggest the program could cost around $300 billion.

Despite Trump referring to the payments as a $2,000 “rebate,” officials clarified that the benefit may not take the form of traditional checks. Bessent explained that the administration is considering alternative formats, such as tax reductions, including no taxes on tips, overtime, or Social Security, as well as the deductibility of auto loans. These measures, he noted, are already being implemented through recent tax policy changes.

The White House reinforced that Trump remains committed to delivering the $2,000 relief in some form. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that economic advisers are evaluating multiple approaches to fulfill the president’s promise.

A major unresolved issue is how to finance the program. Current tariff revenue sits far below what would be required to fund $2,000 per eligible American. Treasury projections estimate $3 trillion in tariff revenue over the next decade, but relying on future revenue could increase the already massive national debt.

Trump continues to defend the tariff strategy, insisting that increased import taxes make the U.S. economically stronger. New tariffs, including a 50% tax on imported cabinets and a potential 100% tax on branded pharmaceuticals, suggest the administration intends to expand this policy further.