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Trump taps Medicare 'slush fund' to send $90 checks to over 20 million US seniors before midterms

From the Newshound archive · first published 3 October 2026 · last updated 4 October 2026.

Trump taps Medicare 'slush fund' to send $90 checks to over 20 million US seniors before midterms

President Trump has announced one-time payments of $90 to more than 20 million Medicare Part B enrollees, drawing on the Medicare Improvement Fund — a pot he branded a "pointless slush fund" used by "Dumocrats" for waste and fraud. The payments, arriving by direct deposit or cheque this month, cover less than HALF of a single month's standard premium of $202.90. Trump linked the move to his pledge to protect Medicare and Social Security, blaming Joe Biden for driving both "to the verge of ruin."

Seniors whose premiums are already covered by Medicaid, or who pay an income-related surcharge, will not be eligible for the payment.

Trump also repeated his promise of a $5,000 "Trump Dividend" cheque to every US adult — but only if Republicans hold both chambers of Congress this autumn.

MoreThe HillTrump announces US will send $90 checks to 20 million seniors enrolled in Medicare - The HillIrish IndependentTrump uses ‘slush fund’ to send one-time cheques to 20 million seniorsHindustan TimesTrump announces $90 checks for 20 million ‘wonderful’ people: Who are eligible for one-time payment? | Hindustan Times - Hindustan TimesThe IndependentTrump announces a new ‘slush fund’ to send checks to 20 million AmericansAPTrump announces $90 payments for seniors on Medicare ahead of midterm elections for premium costs
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