Elon Musk Floats $5,000 ‘DOGE Dividend’ for Taxpayers Using Federal Savings

Billionaire Elon Musk, the unofficial head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has hinted at a potential $5,000 taxpayer refund using savings generated from federal cost-cutting measures. The proposal, originally pitched on social media, has gained traction after Musk responded by saying he would consult President Donald Trump about the idea.

The Proposal: A $5,000 Refund for Taxpayers

The idea, dubbed the “DOGE Dividend,” was first suggested by James Fishback, CEO of investment firm Azoria and an outside adviser to DOGE. Fishback proposed that 20% of the agency’s targeted $2 trillion in savings be redistributed to taxpayers after DOGE’s planned expiration in July 2026. Based on this calculation, each of the estimated 79 million tax-paying households in the U.S. would receive a refund check of around $5,000.

Musk responded to Fishback’s post on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “I will check with the president.” He later clarified that the decision ultimately rests with Trump, stating:

“Obviously, the President is the Commander-in-Chief, so this is entirely up to him.”

How Much Has DOGE Saved So Far?

According to DOGE’s official website, the agency has already saved the U.S. government $55 billion through initiatives such as:

• Fraud detection and removal
• Contract and lease renegotiations or cancellations
• Asset sales
• Workforce reductions
• Program and grant cancellations
• Regulatory savings

While the agency has aggressively pursued cost-cutting measures, it has also faced significant criticism for its methods and scope of authority.

Controversy Over DOGE’s Role

DOGE was established via executive order on Trump’s first day back in office, with a mission to modernize federal operations and reduce government spending. However, the agency’s rapid cost-cutting efforts—especially layoffs, program eliminations, and unrestricted access to federal data—have sparked legal and ethical concerns.

Lawsuits have been filed questioning DOGE’s legal standing, particularly its access to sensitive federal information from departments like the Treasury and Education. Critics argue that Musk, who has no formal government position, is wielding undue influence over federal operations.

What’s Next?

While the “DOGE Dividend” has stirred public interest, it remains uncertain whether the proposal will gain official approval. If Trump endorses the plan, it could mark an unprecedented taxpayer refund directly tied to federal cost-cutting. However, legal and political hurdles could complicate its implementation.

For now, all eyes are on Trump’s response, as well as the ongoing legal battles surrounding DOGE’s authority and Musk’s role in shaping government policy.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com