Donald Trump’s proposal to use tariff revenues to issue $2,000 checks to middle- and lower-income Americans is back in the spotlight, but key hurdles remain. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently clarified that such checks would require approval from Congress, meaning no payments are imminent.

While the White House says Trump is committed to making these payments happen and is exploring legal frameworks, concrete details and timelines have yet to materialize. As of now, eligibility is expected to center on individuals or families earning under $100,000 annually—potentially reaching 150 million Americans. However, the tariff revenue generated so far (about $195 billion to $309 billion this year) would fall short of the $300 billion to $600 billion needed if all eligible recipients receive $2,000, implying a sizable funding gap unless eligibility tightens or funding increases.

Economists caution that, should the idea move forward, it could reignite inflationary pressures. Federal Reserve Bank research links previous pandemic-era stimulus checks to a 2.6 percentage point bump in inflation, and observers warn new mass payouts may push prices higher at a time when inflation is already sticky.

Crucially, legislation is required—experts and political analysts doubt Congress would approve direct payments outside of a major emergency or recession. Any policy rollout is also likely on hold until after the Supreme Court rules on the legal status of Trump’s tariff regime.

Trump’s team and the Treasury Department are considering multiple ways the payments could take shape, from direct checks to other benefits or possible tax rebates. For now, with details unsettled and legislative approval needed, Americans should stay tuned and avoid making major financial plans around the proposed checks.