A new proposal in the US could bring a $5,000 stimulus check to many households, but unlike past COVID relief payments, this one would be funded through savings, not debt. The plan is part of an idea promoted by James Fishback, CEO of Azoria, and backed by big names like Elon Musk and Donald Trump.
Let’s break down what this plan is, how it might work, and who could benefit from it.
What Is the $5,000 DOGE Stimulus Check?
The proposed $5,000 payment is not part of a new relief program like during the pandemic. Instead, it comes from savings created by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is being led by Elon Musk.
This agency is trying to reduce wasteful government spending. The plan is simple: if DOGE can save up to $2 trillion, then 20% of those savings would be returned to tax-paying households in the form of a one-time $5,000 check. Another 20% would be used to help reduce the national debt.
This proposal is still under discussion, and no payments have been approved yet.
How Much Has DOGE Saved So Far?
According to Fishback, DOGE has already found around $130 billion in savings as of March 2025. He believes this shows the plan is working and could reach the $2 trillion savings goal by July 2026, when the program ends.
If that happens, the $5,000 checks could be sent to qualified taxpayers.
Who Would Get the DOGE Stimulus?
Not everyone will qualify for the $5,000 check. Based on current plans, it would go only to:
- Federal income taxpayers, meaning people who pay more in federal taxes than they receive in benefits.
- Likely households earning over $40,000 per year.
- Property-owning taxpayers, as mentioned by Fishback.
Lower-income households that don’t pay net federal income tax would likely not qualify for this payment.
Why Is the DOGE Check Different from COVID-19 Stimulus?
The COVID-19 relief checks increased government debt. In contrast, the DOGE plan aims to use existing savings, meaning it would not add to the deficit.
James Fishback says this idea is about fairness, as taxpayers should benefit when waste is removed from the system. He also pointed out that this plan avoids sending money to foreign debt holders and instead supports local American taxpayers.
What Are Lawmakers Saying?
Fishback mentioned that he has had positive feedback from lawmakers during meetings at the Capitol. He claims there is support from important figures like:
- Donald Trump, who said he would evaluate the idea
- Elon Musk, who stated he would consult with the president
- Kevin Hassett, a former White House economic advisor, who also supports the plan
But for now, no official timeline or legislation has been announced by Congress. While the idea is gaining attention, it still needs to be formally approved by lawmakers before it becomes reality.
How Will DOGE Decide What to Pay?
DOGE aims to save $2 trillion by cutting waste in federal programs. Once this target is met:
- 20% will go to taxpayers as dividend checks
- 20% will reduce national debt
- The rest may be used for other priorities
The $5,000 figure is based on how much DOGE could save and how many households would qualify. However, this number could change if savings are more or less than expected.
While the $5,000 DOGE stimulus check is still just a proposal, it’s gaining momentum. Backed by well-known figures and designed to reward taxpaying households with real savings, this plan is different from previous relief packages.
But until Congress officially passes the plan, nothing is guaranteed. If DOGE meets its $2 trillion savings goal by July 2026, and if the law is approved, qualifying households could receive a big payout. Until then, all eyes are on Washington to see what happens next.
