President Donald Trump offered a new timeline for a proposed round of $2,000 “dividend” checks that he says would be funded by tariff revenue, suggesting payments could be available toward the end of the year.
In an interview with The New York Times, Trump said he believes the checks could be issued without approval from Congress, adding, “We have it coming from other sources.” He did not identify what those sources would be.
White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett has previously said congressional approval would be required to move forward with any such payments.
The proposal could also face legal obstacles. The Supreme Court has not yet ruled on the constitutionality of the tariffs, and if they are found to be illegal, the federal government could be required to refund billions of dollars to U.S. businesses and citizens.
Even with those uncertainties, Trump told The New York Times he expects the plan can work, saying “the tariffs have made us a fortune” and that the funds are “so substantial.”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking to Reuters, said the U.S. Treasury reportedly has $774 billion available, which could cover proposed refunds depending on any income limits that might apply.
