Georgia Tax Rebates Coming Soon
Atlanta – For many Georgia taxpayers, there’s some good news: tax refund checks are set to arrive this week.
The state is returning up to $500 to qualifying individuals, and the Georgia Department of Revenue has announced that it is working to issue these refunds.
Here’s what you need to know:
Back in April, Governor Brian Kemp signed House Bill 112 into law, which established a special state income tax refund totaling $1 billion.
These one-time rebates are available to eligible taxpayers who meet specific criteria, and they will be processed after the state’s operations in 2024.
Rebate amounts include:
- $250 for individuals who file either as single or married
- $375 for those who file as head of household
- $500 for couples filing jointly
For those who pay state taxes or receive their refunds via direct deposit, the amount will be credited directly to their bank accounts. Others can expect to receive a paper check by mail.
According to Georgia law, these rebates are not taxed as income. However, if the recipient has outstanding debts to the state, the refund might be reduced or offset. Keep in mind that no interest will accrue on the refund amount.
This marks the third instance of special tax refunds in Georgia over recent years, with previous refunds issued in 2022 and 2023.
Statements from officials emphasize the intent behind the refunds. “We’ve been careful with our state’s resources, allowing us to return money to hardworking Georgians who know best how to use it,” said Governor Kemp when announcing the refund program. “This refund is something that rightfully belongs to the people, not the government.”
Frank O’Connell, a member of the state revenue committee, added, “Our department is prepared to issue this third round of refunds efficiently and safely. We appreciate the collaboration between the Governor and the General Assembly in making this possible.”
Eligibility for Georgia Tax Rebate
To qualify for these rebates, taxpayers must:
- File both 2023 and 2024 Georgia income tax returns
- Not be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2023 return
- Be a full-time tax resident of Georgia
Looking ahead, as long as taxpayers filed by the May 1 deadline, they should anticipate receiving their refunds in the coming weeks.
And here’s a little extra news—if Georgia taxpayers file next year, the state income tax rate will decrease from 5.39% to 5.19%.
