The Trump administration has implemented numerous changes in the US since the election, and while most are not widely celebrated, this latest move could result in nationwide celebrations. America is one step closer to new $600 stimulus checks. These checks will be a welcome addition to millions of US citizens. However, only one group would officially qualify for the payments.
Americans could be receiving new stimulus checks soon
Americans could soon rejoice over a new program proposed by Republican Senator Josh Hawley. The goal of the program is to provide financial relief in the form of stimulus checks to workers and their families. Senator Hawley’s new bill, in support of this program, is called the Reimbursement for American Workers Act, which plans to return the revenue generated by customs duties implemented by the prior administration.
The newly proposed bill would reportedly follow a similar structure to the direct payments that were distributed by Congress during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. The new program proposal followed the discussions regarding economic policies and their impact on the nation. According to Marca, the program will officially be a new tariff rebate check program.
Qualifying citizens could thus soon receive some additional cash thanks to the revenue collections from the tariffs on imported goods. However, the key phrase is “qualifying citizens,” which means only one group of Americans will potentially reap the benefits.
Only this group of US citizens will qualify for the checks
According to Kiplinger, should the bill be passed, the tariff rebate check program would guarantee a minimum of $600 per qualifying citizen. However, should the tariff revenues be more than projected, these stimulus checks could increase pro rata. The program aims to primarily benefit American workers and their families, and the checks would be distributed per qualifying adult and per dependent child.
“Americans deserve a tax break after four years of Biden’s policies that have devastated families’ savings and livelihoods. As President Trump proposed, my legislation would allow hard-working Americans to benefit from the wealth that Trump’s tariffs are bringing back to this country.” – Senator Hawley
There’s always a catch
Low-income citizens and families will reportedly receive the maximum payment, while those with a higher income should expect a 5% reduction in their stimulus checks. The 5% reduction will primarily impact the following people:
- Joint income tax filers with an income higher than $150,000
- Head of households with an income higher than $112,500
- Individuals with an income higher than $75,000
Besides the possibility of a reduction in the checks, there has been controversy surrounding the tariff revenues from President Trump’s “Liberation Day.”
When can these checks be expected?
According to Reuters, the US tariff revenue for the fiscal year has exceeded $113 billion. However, reports by Kiplinger have indicated that the fiscal year had a federal deficit of approximately $1.4 trillion as of the end of May 2025. This deficit is 7% higher compared to the previous year. This means debates have been flying over whether the US will be able to fund these tariff rebate checks.
However, we must keep in mind that the bill must still be approved by Congress. According to the American Worker Rebate Act in the U.S. Senate, should the bill be approved, American citizens can expect the stimulus checks to be distributed in late 2025 or in 2026. It has been made clear in the bill proposal that no rebates will be made after December 31, 2026.
Is the Reimbursement for American Workers Act to be, or not to be? That is the question, and only time will tell. While you await the results of the newly proposed bill, have a look at these state programs that also distribute financial relief in the form of stimulus checks and rebate programs.
Disclaimer: Our coverage of stimulus checks, tax reliefs, tax rebates, tax credits, and other payments is based on the official sources listed in the article. All payment amounts and dates, as well as eligibility requirements, are subject to change by the governing institutions. Always consult the official source we provide to stay up to date and obtain information for your decision-making.