New stimulus talks resurface amid inflation and tariff concerns
A new proposal for a $2,000 IRS Direct Deposit Relief Payment has reignited conversations across the U.S. as Americans face rising costs of living and persistent inflation. According to a recent report from the Austin American-Statesman, Congressman Ro Khanna of California has recommended $2,000 direct payments to Americans earning under $100,000 per year, arguing that the funds would help offset the effects of new tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration.
Khanna’s proposal, first shared on social media and later elaborated in interviews, suggests that the revenue collected from tariffs—estimated at over $300 billion—should be redirected to working- and middle-class taxpayers through an IRS direct deposit relief payment system.
The Congressman’s message was clear: “Unfair tariffs jacked up prices—give it back,” he said on X (formerly Twitter), calling for immediate relief for Americans burdened by rising housing and grocery costs.
What is the IRS Direct Deposit Relief Payment?
The term “IRS Direct Deposit Relief Payment” refers to a potential system similar to the stimulus checks distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic. If approved, funds would be directly deposited into recipients’ bank accounts via the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), using tax data to determine eligibility.
However, as of October 2025, there is no official legislation authorizing such payments. Any form of new relief check must first be approved by Congress and signed into law by the President.
That means, despite growing public interest, no new stimulus payments or IRS deposits have been scheduled for October or beyond.
Trump’s “DOGE Dividend” idea resurfaces
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time the current administration has discussed direct payments. Earlier in 2025, President Trump floated the idea of a “$5,000 DOGE dividend” during a summit in Miami, referring to his administration’s newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—an initiative led by Elon Musk.
The DOGE program was designed to cut federal spending and increase efficiency across government departments. Trump suggested that up to 20% of savings identified through DOGE reforms could be “returned to the people” as a dividend-style relief payment.
While the idea generated significant media attention, the administration has not provided any concrete timeline or policy details for implementing DOGE dividends or new IRS relief deposits.
Who would qualify for a 2025 relief payment?
Under Congressman Khanna’s proposal, the IRS Direct Deposit Relief Payment would target individuals earning under $100,000 annually, mirroring the eligibility thresholds used during the 2020 and 2021 stimulus rounds.
Couples filing jointly could receive up to $4,000, while heads of households could qualify for payments based on income phase-outs. The funds would likely be distributed electronically via direct deposit, with paper checks and prepaid debit cards used as alternatives for individuals without linked bank accounts.
At this stage, however, Khanna’s plan remains a recommendation, not a binding piece of legislation. It would require bipartisan support in Congress to become reality—a challenging task in the current political landscape.
Texans and Americans await clarity
The Statesman report highlighted growing interest among Texans, many of whom continue to experience high housing costs and inflation despite broader economic recovery. Local economists noted that a direct stimulus could boost consumer spending but also warned of potential inflationary side effects if not carefully targeted.
“Direct deposits can provide short-term relief, but they need to be balanced with broader fiscal policy,” said one Texas-based financial analyst. “The key is ensuring the payments help working families without driving prices higher.”
No confirmation yet from the IRS or Treasury
As of October 2025, neither the IRS nor the U.S. Treasury Department has issued any statement confirming new stimulus or relief payments. The agencies have, however, reminded taxpayers to ensure their direct deposit information is up to date in case future payments are approved.
That means that while discussions about IRS direct deposit relief payments are gaining attention, Americans should remain cautious about online rumors or unofficial announcements.
What comes next?
For the proposal to move forward, a stimulus bill would need to be introduced and passed through both the House of Representatives and the Senate. With the federal budget debate already underway, it’s possible that economic relief payments could become a key talking point in the months ahead.
Still, until a formal bill is introduced, experts agree there is no official timeline or guaranteed payment date for any new IRS direct deposit relief.
Bottom line
While Congressman Ro Khanna’s proposal has reignited hopes for another IRS Direct Deposit Relief Payment, the idea remains in early stages. For now, Americans—especially those in Texas—should stay tuned for legislative developments and monitor official updates from IRS.gov and the U.S. Treasury.
For the latest updates on U.S. economic news, stimulus payments, and financial developments, visit StartupNews.fyi and stay informed about what’s next for taxpayers and small businesses.
