As of June 2025, there’s a flood of posts online claiming that Americans are about to receive a $5000 stimulus check, supposedly approved by President Trump. The rumor even has a flashy name—the “DOGE dividend.” But let’s be clear: there is no $5000 stimulus check, and no official government program with that name or purpose has been created or approved.
Trump
The root of this rumor goes back to a February 2025 summit in Miami. During the event, President Trump casually mentioned the idea of a $5000 stimulus payment. He called it a “DOGE dividend” and suggested it could be funded by savings from a proposed Department of Government Efficiency.
But this was not an official policy announcement. There was no law, no budget, and no rollout plan attached to the statement. Since then, there’s been no follow-up, no executive order, and no confirmed proposal. And more importantly, no government agency has verified that such a program even exists.
IRS
What does the IRS have to say? Pretty much the opposite of what the rumors claim.
The IRS has made it clear that there are no new stimulus checks authorized or approved for 2025. The last official stimulus check was the third round of Economic Impact Payments in 2021—up to $1400 per eligible individual.
Those who missed out on that payment had until April 15, 2025, to claim it through the Recovery Rebate Credit by filing a 2021 tax return. That deadline has now passed—even for those who filed for an extension.
So if you’re still waiting for a stimulus check, it’s not coming, at least not from the federal government.
Misinformation
Misinformation about government payments spreads fast, especially when people are struggling financially. It’s easy to see how a few vague statements can turn into viral headlines promising free money.
The problem is that scammers use these rumors to trick people. They might say they can “help” you get your $5000 check if you just share your Social Security number or banking info. Don’t fall for it. These are classic identity theft tactics.
The IRS and other government agencies will never text, email, or call you asking for personal information to send you a stimulus payment. If someone does, it’s a scam.
Official
To know what’s real and what’s not, stick to the official sources. For anything related to taxes, payments, or benefits, IRS.gov is the place to go.
You can also track your regular tax refund through the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool. And if you really need help, call the IRS directly at 800-829-1954. They can confirm whether you’re due any payments and explain what to expect.
Remember, the 21-day refund timeline only applies to tax returns filed electronically with direct deposit. This has nothing to do with stimulus checks—because there aren’t any new ones.
Forward
Even though there’s no federal stimulus on the way, help is still available in other forms. Many state and local governments have their own relief programs. And federal support programs like SNAP (food assistance), LIHEAP (energy bill help), Medicaid, and more are still running for those who qualify.
The key is to be careful. Always verify any claims about payments through official government websites. If a website doesn’t end in dot gov, don’t trust it with your personal details.
Scams thrive on confusion, and misinformation only makes it easier for fraudsters to take advantage of people. Stay informed, stay cautious, and stick to the facts.
FAQs
Is the $5000 DOGE dividend real?
No, there is no official program offering this payment.
What did Trump say about the $5000 check?
He mentioned the idea, but no policy or law followed.
Has the IRS announced any new stimulus?
No, the IRS has confirmed no new payments for 2025.
Can I still claim old stimulus payments?
The deadline to claim 2021 payments was April 15, 2025.
Where do I find legit tax info?
Visit IRS.gov or call the IRS at 800-829-1954.
