There’s a way to check if you’re eligible for the $4,000 check that president Donald Trump has promised ‘hardworking’ Americans.

A year into Trump’s second term, the White House is highlighting tax reform efforts as evidence that relief for working families is forthcoming.

Since taking the oath of office following his 2024 election win, Trump’s leadership has been characterized by sweeping statements and headline-grabbing policy initiatives.

He has asserted that he brought an end to ‘eight wars,’ even as international tensions persist, including Russia’s continued invasion of Ukraine.

Domestically, his expanded use of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in multiple states has sparked debate, especially after two civilians, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were fatally shot during federal enforcement actions. Amid this climate of political polarization and public unrest, the administration has placed renewed emphasis on economic relief measures.

Approval ratings and economic anxiety

Public sentiment in Trump’s second term continues to be deeply polarized. According to an AP-NORC survey carried out in January 2026, only four in 10 U.S. adults approve of his job performance to date, while 59% disapprove of how he and his administration are governing the country.

Although 40% remain supportive, frustration is most pronounced on economic matters.

Just 37% of Americans approve of his management of the economy, compared with 62% who disapprove.

Regarding immigration, 38% express approval, and 37% back his handling of foreign policy and trade talks.

The issue of affordability stands out as especially contentious. During the 2024 campaign, Trump promised to make daily life ‘much more affordable’ for ordinary Americans.

However, 51% of those surveyed said they feel his policies have made living costs worse, while only 34% believe he has effectively addressed the cost-of-living challenge.

Even so, the administration maintains that sweeping tax reforms are on the way and will soon provide relief for working families.

The ‘one big beautiful bill’

At the heart of the promised boost is One Big Beautiful Bill, which Trump signed into law on July 4, 2025.

The sweeping legislation combines extensive tax cuts, spending adjustments, and structural changes to federal programs.

It lays out the economic agenda for the remainder of his second term and is widely viewed as a cornerstone of his “America First” platform.

As the act was signed, tax repayments were promised to working families. The White House has since published projections forecasting $100 billion in ‘total tax refunds in 2026 for American families.’

Aa per the administration, average refunds for Americans are expected to rise by $1,000 or more this year due to what it calls ‘transformative policies.’

The White House has gone further, stating that ‘the average taxpayer’ can ‘expect to see nearly a $4,000 payment in total tax savings in 2026.’

That figure has drawn widespread attention, though it represents projected savings rather than a flat, guaranteed check.

The legislation outlines several headline provisions. As described in the official summary: “Key provisions include No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, No Tax on Social Security, a deduction for auto loan interest on Made-in-America vehicles, and much more, putting more money back in the pockets of families, workers, and seniors.”

Depending on income level and financial circumstances, some taxpayers could see more substantial savings than others.

Why not everyone will receive $4,000

Although the administration’s messaging highlights a nearly $4,000 boost, the amount any individual receives will depend on multiple factors. The figure represents total projected tax savings under the new law, not a universal payment.

Income level will play a major role. Many tax benefits phase out at higher earnings thresholds, even if the White House has not yet specified exact cutoffs for every provision.

Earlier in his term, Trump also promised a $2,000 cash payment tied to tariff revenues, stating it would go to everyone except those with a ‘high income,’ though a precise threshold was never defined.

That ambiguity has fueled skepticism among some Americans who are still waiting for earlier payments to materialize.

Employment type also matters. Workers who earn a significant portion of their income through tips or overtime may benefit most from the ‘No Tax on Tips’ and ‘No Tax on Overtime’ measures.

For instance, hospitality employees, restaurant servers, healthcare workers, and others who rely on extra hours could see meaningful reductions in taxable income, potentially boosting refunds in 2026.

Retirees may also benefit if they previously paid federal income tax on Social Security income and now fall within the updated exemption guidelines.

Likewise, taxpayers who financed qualifying Made-in-America vehicles may be able to deduct auto loan interest under the new provisions.

How to check if you’re eligible

For American people wondering whether they qualify for the projected $4,000 boost, the first step is reviewing their most recent tax return.

Your adjusted gross income, filing status, and breakdown of income sources will determine how the new rules apply.

Comparing your 2025 tax situation to what it would look like under the updated provisions can provide a clearer estimate of potential savings.

People who earn tips or substantial overtime should review pay stubs and annual income summaries to calculate how much of their income may now be exempt from federal taxation.

Retirees should examine whether Social Security benefits were previously taxed and whether they may now qualify for full or partial exemptions.

Individuals with car loans should check whether their vehicle meets domestic manufacturing criteria and calculate how much interest was paid during the tax year.

Since the $4,000 figure reflects total tax savings rather than a direct check, consulting updated IRS guidance for the 2026 filing season will be essential.

Tax preparation software and certified tax professionals can help model the potential refund under the new rules and ensure that all qualifying deductions are applied.

Ultimately, while the White House says hardworking Americans can ‘expect to see nearly a $4,000 payment in total tax savings in 2026,’ eligibility depends on personal financial circumstances.

For some households, the savings may approach that figure. For others, the benefit may be closer to the projected $1,000 average increase.

Reviewing your income, understanding how the new provisions apply to you, and seeking professional guidance if needed will be the clearest way to determine whether you’re in line for the promised boost.