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.

But don't start spending that money quite yet. DOGE ideally must meet its $2 trillion savings goal to make the kickback possible. And that accomplishment is something even Elon Musk, the unofficial leader of DOGE, said may not be doable back in January.