WASHINGTON – Rumors about new stimulus checks, IRS direct deposits, relief payments, and tariff dividends have circulated throughout 2025 and continue into 2026. But is there any truth behind these claims? Here’s a quick fact check:
Federal Stimulus Payments for February 2026
What We Know: The last federal economic impact payments were issued in 2021, and any new checks would require new legislation from Congress. In 2024, the IRS issued automatic payments of up to $1,400 for taxpayers who had not claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 returns.
These payments were made via direct deposit or mail between December 2024 and January 2025, with recipients receiving notices as well. The final opportunity to claim the $1,400 credit was by filing a 2021 tax return by April 15, 2025, and no extensions were provided. As of now, Congress has not authorized any new stimulus payments, and the IRS has not announced any upcoming checks.
Trump’s $2,000 Tariff Dividend Proposal
What We Know: Former President Donald Trump has suggested giving every American a $2,000 “dividend” funded by import taxes, which he claims would support tariffs aimed at protecting U.S. industries. However, a 2025 Tax Foundation analysis estimated that the proposal could cost between $279.8 billion and $606.8 billion, depending on its design.
The estimated tariff revenue for 2025 is $158.4 billion, which is far less than needed to cover the payments and reduce the federal deficit. In a December 2025 cabinet meeting, Trump predicted that 2026 could see the “largest tax refund season ever.” Still, no official plan for a tariff dividend has been confirmed.
DOGE Dividend Payment Proposals
What We Know: In 2025, Trump briefly floated the idea of issuing a DOGE dividend to U.S. citizens, but the proposal has not materialized. Some Republican lawmakers have expressed skepticism, and economists warn that such payments could fuel inflation.
$1,776 Warrior Dividend and Devotion to Duty Payments
What We Know: In December 2025, President Trump announced a one-time, tax-free $1,776 “Warrior Dividend” for nearly 1.5 million service members as a tribute to their service and 250 years of U.S. military history. The payment is funded through Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill. A separate $2,000 “Devotion to Duty” bonus will be given to Coast Guard members, with take-home pay closer to $1,776 after taxes.
Stimulus Scams and Recurring Rumors
Rumors about $1,702 or $1,390 “stimulus checks” are often tied to state programs like Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend or are simply scams. The IRS warns taxpayers to be cautious of emails, texts, websites, and social media posts asking for money or personal information. The IRS never contacts taxpayers through these methods.
IRS Stimulus Scam Warnings
The IRS is warning about fraudulent stimulus payment messages aimed at stealing personal and financial information. Legitimate IRS communications always begin with an official letter, and agents may call only after sending a notice. Scammers, however, often pose as the IRS through fake accounts or links.
Tax Refunds Down 17% for Americans
Tax refunds are expected to be about 17% lower on average, with the typical refund decreasing by approximately $1,000 compared to last year, due to recent tax law changes.
Tax Refund Information
If you’ve paid more in taxes than you owe, you’ll receive the difference back as a refund. You may also qualify for refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit. The IRS expects most EITC and Child Tax Credit refunds to be available by March 2 for taxpayers using direct deposit.
Where’s My Refund?
Taxpayers can track their refund status using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool, with electronic filers receiving updates within 24 hours and paper filers within four weeks.
