Georgia has launched a plan that will benefit thousands of citizens. It is a tax refund approved by the state authorities. The measure seeks to ease the economic burden on taxpayers.
The refund can reach up to $500 per person. Governor Brian Kemp and the Department of Revenue are responsible for this process. The money comes from the state's budget surplus, estimated at $11 billion (€11,000,000,000).
What does this tax refund consist of?
The program was authorized by House Bill 112, and the goal is to return part of the money to those who contributed. Of the $11 billion (€11,000,000,000) available, $1.2 billion (€1,200,000,000) will be used for these refunds. The measure is not new; it continues the refund model that was already applied in 2022 and 2023.
This year, payments will be made in June, July, and August 2025. According to Joe Snowden, spokesperson for the Department of Revenue, payments will be made in several batches. In bank accounts, they will appear with the description "GASTTAXRFD".
Requirements to receive the refund
Not all citizens will be eligible for this benefit; there are some conditions that must be met. First, you must file the 2023 and 2024 state tax returns; it is also valid if you have a state-approved extension. Another requirement is not having outstanding debts with the Department of Revenue.
Otherwise, the refund could be used to pay those obligations. In addition, you must not be claimed as a dependent on another person's return in 2023.
How much money can you receive?
The refund amount depends on marital status and how the return was filed. Below are the ranges defined by the state:
- $250 if you filed as single or married filing separately.
- $375 for those listed as head of household.
- $500 if you filed jointly with your spouse.
Partial residents will also receive money. However, the amount will be adjusted proportionally.
Payments are being made in two ways: one is direct deposit, the other is sending paper checks by mail. If you chose bank deposit on the return, that will be the method used, and the deposit will appear under the name "GASTTAXRFD". If you did not provide a bank account, the check will arrive at the address registered on the return.
Some delays in payments
Although many have already received the money, others are still waiting for it. The Department of Revenue assures that they are processing batches to avoid errors. Governor Kemp indicated that more than $488 million (€488,000,000) have already been sent and reminded that the money "belongs to Georgia's workers and not to the government. "Therefore, if you are eligible, keep calm; the payment may take time, but if you meet the requirements, it will arrive.