Here’s what Americans should expect.
Many Americans are asking the same question: when could President Trump’s proposed checks actually arrive? New comments from a top White House economic official are now fueling fresh attention around the idea.
National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said Sunday that President Trump is expected to support legislation next year that would allow rebate checks to be sent directly to Americans, potentially totaling $2,000 per person.
Trump Expected to Push Proposal in the New Year
Appearing on CBS News’ Face the Nation, Hassett explained that the White House anticipates formally bringing the proposal before Congress once the new year begins.
“I would expect that in the new year, the president will bring forward a proposal to Congress to make that happen,” Hassett said.
While the president may support the plan, Hassett made clear that Congress would have the final say on whether any rebate checks are approved and funded.
Congressional Debate Already Underway
Not all lawmakers are aligned on the idea. Some Republicans have voiced concerns about long-term federal spending and whether large rebate programs are financially sustainable.
Last month, Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin publicly questioned whether the country could afford such payments, underscoring ongoing debates within Congress over fiscal responsibility and federal budgets.
Who Would Qualify for the Checks?
President Trump has been promoting the rebate concept since last month, calling for $2,000 payments to Americans while excluding what he described as “high-income people.”
So far, the White House has not released specific income limits or eligibility rules. Those details would likely be addressed during the legislative process if Congress moves forward with the proposal.
How Would the Checks Be Funded?
According to Hassett, one possible funding source would be revenue generated by tariffs imposed on imported goods. However, he stressed that Congress controls how federal revenue is ultimately spent.
“It could come from tariff revenue,” Hassett said, “but Congress decides how those funds are appropriated.”
Treasury Department data shows that tariff collections reached approximately $195 billion through the first three quarters of the year, highlighting the significant revenue generated by the administration’s trade policies.
Tariffs and Consumer Impact
Economists acknowledge that businesses have passed some tariff costs on to consumers. Recent estimates show that effective tariff rates are now at levels not seen in decades, reflecting the broad scope of current trade measures.
Supporters argue that rebate checks could help offset those costs for American households, while critics continue to debate the broader economic impact.
Other Rebate Proposals on the Table
Earlier this year, Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri introduced a separate bill proposing $600 rebate payments for most Americans, including dependent children. Under that plan, a family of four would receive $2,400.
While Hawley’s proposal differs from President Trump’s $2,000 check idea, both highlight growing bipartisan interest in returning tariff revenue to American families.
What Happens Next?
At this point, no checks have been approved and no dates have been finalized. Any rebate program would require congressional action, formal legislation, and signed appropriations.
Still, Hassett’s comments suggest that early next year could be a critical window as President Trump and lawmakers debate whether rebate checks become reality.
For now, Americans will be watching closely as Congress weighs the proposal and determines whether financial relief tied to tariff revenue moves forward.
