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.

President Trump has floated the idea of giving taxpayers a $5,000 refund check as a dividend from savings created by DOGE. Here's what to know.