As Americans wait to see if the $2,000 tariff dividend checks will arrive, the Internal Revenue Service is warning the public about potential scams. Officials say texts or emails claiming to offer stimulus payments are likely fraudulent.
Trump Comments on Stimulus Checks
On February 4, former President Donald Trump addressed questions about the $2,000 stimulus checks. He said, “I’m looking at it very seriously. I haven’t made my commitment yet, but I may make my commitment,” according to USA TODAY.
Trump first mentioned the tariff dividend payments in November on his Truth Social account, stating the checks would go to “everyone” except high-income individuals. He later suggested the payments could arrive “probably in the middle of next year (2026).”
Conflicting Statements
In a January interview with reporters, Trump appeared uncertain when asked about the checks. Initially, he responded, “I did do that? When did I do that?” He then added, “Well, I am going to — the tariff money is so substantial. That’s coming in, that I’ll be able to do $2,000 sometime. I would say toward the end of the year.”
These comments show there is still no official timeline for the payments.
Legal Hurdles for Distribution
The Supreme Court must first decide if it is legal for Trump to send these checks. The funds are intended to come from tariffs he imposed, but the Court has yet to rule on the constitutionality of those tariffs. Without a legal ruling, there is no confirmed timeline for the stimulus checks.
IRS Warns of Scams
Reports indicate some Americans have received texts about stimulus payments. The IRS warns that these messages are scams. Officials advise recipients not to open links, share personal information, or pay fees.
The IRS typically contacts taxpayers by mail first. Text messages are only sent if the recipient has given prior consent. The agency will never demand gift cards or prepaid debit cards, nor direct individuals to unofficial websites.
What This Means
For now, Americans should remain cautious and wait for official announcements. While Trump has discussed the $2,000 tariff dividend payments, no formal plan or date has been confirmed. Scammers are already exploiting the uncertainty, so vigilance is key.
