Eligibility and Cost Questions Grow
Trump’s post did not explain who would qualify or when payments might begin. Past stimulus efforts backed by Trump used income caps of $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for couples.
If the White House adopts a $100,000 threshold, about 150 million Americans could qualify. That would push the total cost to around $300 billion, according to the Tax Foundation’s Erica York.
Revenue Gap Raises Debt Concerns
Here’s the problem: as of September 30, tariff revenue totaled $195 billion—far below what’s needed. To close the gap, the administration may rely on projected future earnings.
The Treasury Department expects $3 trillion in tariff income over the next decade. However, using future revenue would increase the national debt, which already sits above $38 trillion.
New Tariffs Set to Start
The next round of tariffs begins next week, including a 50% tax on cabinets and up to 100% on patented pharmaceuticals. Trump argues these measures are essential, claiming tariffs are making the U.S. the “Richest, Most Respected Country In the World.”
Economists Skeptical
Still, many economists question whether tariff revenue alone can sustain payments of this scale. For now, the plan remains bold, controversial, and largely undefined.
