As Americans eagerly await the potential arrival of $2,000 tariff dividend checks, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is cautioning the public about a rise in stimulus check scams. With growing buzz surrounding the checks, many individuals have reportedly been targeted by deceptive text messages regarding these payments, leading the IRS to emphasize that no official announcements have been made regarding stimulus payments.
In early February, former President Donald Trump mentioned the possibility of the stimulus checks during an interview with NBC reporter Tom Llamas. Trump indicated he was considering the commitment, stating, “I’m looking at it very seriously. I haven’t made my commitment yet, but I may make my commitment,” he was quoted as saying. This follows his earlier statements on Truth Social, where he proposed that everyone, except for high-income individuals, would receive the anticipated payout. Trump suggested that the payments could potentially be issued “probably in the middle of next year (2026).”
Amid speculation regarding the checks, Trump has not provided any definitive timetable for their disbursement. During a sit-down interview with the New York Times in January, when directly asked about the stimulus payments’ timeline, he expressed uncertainty, further noting, “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.”
However, the legal question remains whether Trump can legally distribute these checks since they are based on tariffs he has imposed. A ruling from the Supreme Court is pending on the constitutionality of these tariffs, and without this decision, a clear timeline for issuing the checks cannot be established.
In light of the ongoing discussions and potential scams circulating, the IRS has reiterated that its initial means of communication is typically through the U.S. Postal Service. The agency clarified that while they may use texts if permitted, they will never contact individuals via automated messages that threaten action or direct them to unofficial websites for payment confirmation.
As the situation evolves and more information becomes available, Americans are advised to remain vigilant against scams while waiting for official updates regarding the anticipated stimulus payments.