Despite growing social media buzz about a possible fourth round of stimulus checks, officials across the board are urging Americans to take the news with a grain of salt. Rumors are circulating about $2,000 payments being sent out to low and middle-income earners, but the IRS and other federal agencies have not confirmed any such plan for 2025.
Let’s break down what’s being said, what’s actually true, and what South Carolina residents and others across the country need to know.
Stimulus
The stimulus rumors began swirling again when reports claimed that individuals earning less than $75,000 and couples earning under $150,000 would qualify for $2,000 checks. Dependents were also said to increase the payout. Supposedly, these checks could arrive in late 2025 or early 2026.
The catch? None of this has been confirmed by lawmakers. No bill has been introduced in Congress. And the IRS has made no statement acknowledging any plans for new payments. The buzz is based on speculation—not action.
Official
Federal agencies have been clear. There’s no approval from Congress or guidance from the IRS about another round of economic impact payments. A Treasury spokesperson even stated that no stimulus-related legislation has passed either chamber of Congress.
The IRS also confirmed that there’s no sign of preparation internally—no system changes, no extra staffing—nothing that would suggest new checks are on the way.
The White House and President Trump’s administration have stayed silent too. So, unless something dramatic changes, this remains just talk.
DOGE
A big part of the confusion comes from the “DOGE dividend,” a separate idea floated by Azoria CEO James Fishback. The concept? If the federal government saves over $2 trillion, a portion would be returned to taxpayers.
But as of May 29, only $180 billion has been saved—way short of the goal. Plus, with no approved mechanism in Congress to distribute the funds, the DOGE dividend looks like it’s stuck in neutral.
Elon Musk’s resignation from the project has also slowed momentum. Government insiders now believe the DOGE initiative could fizzle out by mid-2026 without ever issuing dividends.
Eligibility
Let’s say DOGE or another stimulus somehow goes through. Who would actually get it?
That’s where things narrow. Only net-income taxpayers—those who pay more in federal taxes than they get back in credits—would be eligible. That means low-income households, many of whom pay little to no federal income tax, would likely be excluded.
According to the Pew Research Center, most families earning under $40,000 fall into this group. In short, millions would miss out.
Caution
In South Carolina, local experts are speaking out. Economic policy expert Dr. Eileen Hargrove advises people not to budget based on these rumors. There’s no federal framework, no law, no sign that a fourth stimulus check is coming.
State officials also report zero communication from Washington that would indicate any new relief efforts are being planned.
History
The U.S. government previously approved three stimulus payments between 2020 and 2021 to ease financial pressure during the pandemic. These required full congressional approval and were distributed by the IRS with help from the Treasury.
Since then, nothing new has emerged on a national level. Some states have launched their own programs, but no federal stimulus checks have been issued after 2021.
Misinformation
Part of the problem is social media. Platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) are fueling false hopes with misleading headlines and unverified claims.
The IRS continues to remind the public to stick with official sources. If you haven’t heard it from the IRS, Congress, or the Treasury, don’t assume it’s true.
Reality
As of July 23, 2025, there is no plan for a fourth stimulus check. None of the major government bodies have endorsed or introduced legislation to make it happen.
The DOGE program is far from ready, and Congress is focused on other priorities during an election year. If you need help, look into existing local and federal aid programs instead of waiting on a check that may never arrive.
FAQs
Who qualifies for DOGE dividends?
Only net-income taxpayers paying more in taxes than they receive.
Is a fourth stimulus check confirmed?
No, there is no confirmation from Congress or the IRS.
Are DOGE dividends the same as stimulus checks?
No, they are separate programs with different rules.
What has the IRS said about new payments?
They have not announced or prepared for new stimulus checks.
Should I plan my finances around stimulus rumors?
Experts advise against it due to lack of any formal legislation.
