Some GA taxpayers could get up to $500 extra in tax refunds. Here’s how
Some Georgia taxpayers may be getting an extra $500 back in their refund, all thanks to the state’s budget surplus. Governor Brian Kemp signed HB 1000 into law in March, triggering another round of one-time tax rebates for eligible Georgians.
The bill allows residents to receive a refund of some or all of their tax year 2024 income taxes, using state surplus funds. This has happened before in 2022 and 2023 when similar legislation was passed.
Who qualifies for the rebate?
The refund isn’t automatic for everyone, there are a few qualifiers.
- Have filed Georgia individual income tax returns for both tax year 2024 and tax year 2025
- Had a tax liability for tax year 2024 (if you owed $0, you’re not eligible)
- Must reside in Georgia full-time (part-year residents and nonresidents may receive a prorated amount)
- Cannot have been claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2024 return
- Retirees over 62 who owed no Georgia taxes in 2024 are not eligible
How much will taxpayers get?
You won’t get more than what you actually owed. If your 2024 tax liability was less than the maximum for your filing status, your rebate is capped at your actual liability.
- Single filers or married filing separately: up to $250
- Head of household: up to $375
- Married filing jointly: up to $500
How to check your status
Don’t call. The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) reports high call volume and call center representatives have the same information you can access online.
- Check your status at gtc.dor.ga.gov
- Have your SSN or ITIN and your Federal Adjusted Gross Income from your 2024 Georgia return available
- Updates happen daily
- Refunds go out the same way you set up your regular return
- Allow 6–8 weeks from the March 20 signing date
If you’ve moved since filing your 2024 return, update your address through the Georgia Tax Center or call 1-877-423-6711 to make sure a paper check reaches you.
If you have anything you would like to learn more about, email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.