Proposed DOGE Dividend Stimulus Check: Who Qualifies?

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The creator of a proposed dividend check for American taxpayers has updated eligibility requirements, generating widespread interest and debate. James Fishback, CEO of Azoria investment firm, recently clarified that anyone filing a federal income tax return and paying federal income taxes would qualify for the proposed $5,000 DOGE dividend check.

Fishback explained during an appearance on Steve Ram‘s podcast, “If you file a federal income tax return — if you pay federal income tax, which is to say that you worked — you would receive a DOGE dividend check. That individual and their household would benefit from this payment.” This proposal is part of an initiative by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) aimed at improving federal government operations and cutting costs.

The plan has gained traction, particularly with some support from President Donald Trump. The idea is to utilize savings generated by government efficiency measures to fund these checks. However, there are no confirmations about the proposal becoming official government policy. The initiative aims to distribute about $400 billion to taxpayers, covering an estimated 79 million households across the nation.

The DOGE initiative proposes directing 20 percent of its anticipated savings toward taxpayer payments and another 20 percent to reducing the national debt. The target is to achieve $2 trillion in savings within 18 months, allowing the distribution of checks for an estimated $5,000 per household.

However, recent reports from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) indicate that these projected savings may not be feasible. The CBO reported a 5 percent increase in the federal deficit for February due to a 7 percent rise in spending compared to the previous year, raising skepticism about the anticipated cost reductions from DOGE.

According to CBO data, the federal government borrowed $1.1 trillion in the first five months of Fiscal Year 2025 alone, highlighting concerns regarding the overall fiscal health of the government. These developments have led to debates about the sustainability and effectiveness of the proposed DOGE initiative

In response to questions from the public, Fishback addressed concerns regarding Social Security recipients. He reassured potential taxpayers that if both spouses on a joint tax return pay federal income tax, they would collectively receive the refund, indicating the payment is issued per household.

While supporters posit that the payouts could enhance trust in government and stimulate economic activity, critics express concerns over potential inflation and increasing national debt. Financial literacy instructor Alex Beene remarked, “Even with the potential savings from recent cuts, stimulus checks are an incredibly expensive endeavor for a government already deeply in debt and facing no pandemic-level emergency to undertake.”

Joseph Camberato, CEO of National Business Capital, added, “Handing out $5,000 checks isn’t the best move. Just because we saved a bunch of money doesn’t mean we should start giving it away.” He emphasized the importance of investing in long-term solutions rather than direct cash giveaways.

Despite the mixed opinions on the feasibility and implications of the DOGE dividend proposal, there remains a palpable interest among both lawmakers and the public. A recent J.L. Partners poll found that while support for the initiative is high, concerns over funding sources and economic repercussions persist.

As it stands, uncertainty looms over the proposal’s future and whether Americans can expect a $5,000 DOGE check in the near future.