$1,600 Stimulus Checks in June ― See your Payment Date Here

Getting a tax refund is always welcome, but for Coloradans, it’s more than just a financial boost—it’s a right protected by state law. Thanks to the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), the state is constitutionally required to return excess revenue to taxpayers when collections exceed a specific threshold tied to inflation and population growth. And for the 2025 payment cycle, that means TABOR refund checks are on the way.

Here’s a closer look at how these payments work, who qualifies, and what makes Colorado unique in this regard.

What Is TABOR and Why It Matters?

Passed in 1992, Colorado’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) limits how much revenue the state can collect and spend each year. If the state brings in more money than this cap allows—due to a booming economy or rising tax receipts—the surplus must be refunded to residents, unless voters approve otherwise.

TABOR also requires voter approval for most tax increases, putting checks on government growth and giving taxpayers more direct control over public spending.

While the term “Taxpayer Bill of Rights” also exists at the federal level, where the IRS outlines ten rights for taxpayers (such as the right to appeal, privacy, and confidentiality), Colorado’s TABOR is focused specifically on state-level tax limits and refunds.

Who Is Eligible for the 2025 TABOR Refund?

To qualify for the 2025 TABOR refund in Colorado, residents must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old by January 1, 2025
• Have been a full-year Colorado resident in 2024
• File a 2024 Colorado state income tax return or apply through the PTC (Property Tax, Rent, Heat) Rebate Program by October 15, 2025

The refunds are automatic for most who meet the criteria. However, individuals who don’t file a standard return (such as low-income seniors or those not required to file taxes) can still qualify by submitting a PTC rebate application.

TABOR Refund Amounts and Payment Schedule

Colorado uses a flat-rate refund model, meaning every eligible taxpayer receives the same amount—regardless of their income or tax liability.

Filing Status	Refund Amount
Single Filers	$800
Joint Filers	$1,600

Payment Timeline:

Filing Date	Expected Refund Date
By April 15, 2025	Mid to late April 2025
After April 15, but by Oct 15	Within 60 days of return processing

Refunds will be issued by direct deposit (if selected on the tax return) or via paper check mailed to the taxpayer’s address on file.

Applying Through the PTC Rebate Program

If you didn’t file a standard income tax return but meet the eligibility rules, you can still receive your TABOR refund by applying through the PTC rebate. This program is generally used by seniors or individuals with lower incomes who pay rent, property tax, or heating costs.

To qualify through this route:

• You must submit your application by October 15, 2025
• If approved, you’ll receive the TABOR refund in the same amount and within a similar time frame

Why TABOR Refunds Are Unique

Colorado stands alone in its approach to mandatory tax refunds through TABOR. It’s a rare example of a constitutionally mandated system that:

• Caps government revenue growth
• Requires voter approval for tax increases
• Returns surplus funds to taxpayers when revenue exceeds the cap

While other states may offer rebates or refunds sporadically, Colorado’s system is built into law and tied to specific economic metrics.

This framework ensures that as the state collects more revenue, the people—not the government—benefit directly, helping residents offset rising living costs and maintain purchasing power.

With refund checks already being issued and more on the way through fall 2025, Colorado taxpayers are once again seeing the impact of TABOR in action.

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