Talks are heating up around the potential $5,000 “DOGE dividend” refund check — a bold proposal aimed at returning federal savings to taxpayers. First introduced by Azoria CEO James Fishback on Elon Musk’s platform X, the idea has picked up real momentum in Washington.
Fishback, who recently met with lawmakers in D.C., told Chris Cuomo he’s “very optimistic” the checks will happen, noting strong support from President Trump, Elon Musk, and economist Kevin Hassett. The concept? Take 20% of savings generated by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), created under Trump and led by Musk, and send that money directly back to taxpayers.
DOGE, officially known as the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization, was established to slash wasteful government spending, cut red tape, and modernize federal systems. The team claims to have already saved over $130 billion, with a goal of $1 trillion in savings.
According to Fishback’s plan, these dividend checks would go only to net taxpayers — households that pay more in federal income tax than they receive in benefits. That means lower-income Americans likely wouldn’t qualify. Fishback says this approach avoids inflationary effects since the payments are backed by real savings, not debt.
Musk backed the idea during a recent Wisconsin rally, emphasizing that “as government becomes more efficient, taxpayers benefit.” However, the plan still needs full congressional approval — and Trump’s final greenlight — before checks can be sent.
So, while the DOGE dividend isn’t guaranteed yet, its backers believe it’s a matter of when, not if. Stay tuned — your tax refund may be getting a futuristic upgrade.
