By definition, a dividend is a distribution of profits by a corporation to its shareholders and a refund is a payment made back to a user that previously paid for something. A stimulus check, on the other hand, is a direct payment to encourage spending and stimulate the economy by putting money directly into the consumers' hands.

The idea of a hefty DOGE dividend stimulus check is undeniably appealing, but current data suggest that, if implemented, it would be more symbolic than transformative.

But don't start spending that money quite yet. DOGE ideally must meet its $2 trillion savings goal to make the kickback possible. And that accomplishment is something even Elon Musk, the unofficial leader of DOGE, said may not be doable back in January.

DOGE claims to have already saved $55 billion in government cuts so far, but the figure has not been verified.

The plan involves splitting up 20% of DOGE’s total savings — an estimated $2 trillion — and dividing it into $5,000 checks.

As the Department of Government Efficiency considers the idea of a “DOGE dividend” to help Americans benefit from streamlining the bureaucracy, it’s possible that only net taxpayers will receive payouts.