Georgia residents are set to receive a financial boost this June, as the state rolls out $500 rebate checks to help offset the rising cost of living and inflation. This move, authorized by Governor Brian Kemp, stems from a $1 billion budget surplus and is part of a broader effort to return excess tax revenue to citizens. Backed by House Bill 112, the initiative targets those who’ve filed state taxes and meet specific eligibility criteria.
When Will the Rebate Payments Be Issued?
Residents who filed their 2023 and 2024 tax returns by the May 1, 2025, deadline can expect to see their rebate checks arrive in June. The Georgia Department of Revenue will issue the payments through the method listed on each taxpayer’s most recent return—either direct deposit or mailed check.
Those who requested a tax extension still qualify for the rebate but will receive it after filing their returns by the extended deadline of October 15, 2025. Once the state processes and reviews the returns, eligible taxpayers will receive their payments. Importantly, the rebate is non-taxable.
Eligibility Criteria for the $500 Rebate
To qualify for Georgia’s special tax refund, residents must meet the following conditions:
- Had a state tax liability in 2023.
- Filed Georgia income tax returns for both 2023 and 2024.
- Not have been claimed as a dependent on someone else’s 2023 return.
- Be either a full-time Georgia resident or a part-time resident who earned income in the state.
Out-of-state individuals who earned income in Georgia may also be eligible for a partial rebate.
How Much Will You Receive?
The rebate amount depends on your filing status:
Filing Status | Rebate Amount |
---|---|
Married Filing Jointly | $500 |
Head of Household | $375 |
Single or Married Filing Separately | $250 |
It’s important to note that the rebate is capped at your 2023 tax liability. If you didn’t owe any taxes or owed less than the rebate amount, you’ll receive only up to the amount of your liability—or possibly nothing at all.
Why Georgia Is Issuing These Payments
This rebate is part of a broader fiscal strategy made possible by Georgia’s strong surplus. In addition to the one-time rebate through HB 112, Georgia also passed House Bill 111, which lowered the state’s income tax rate from 5.39% to 5.19%. These measures reflect a consistent effort by the state to reduce the tax burden on its residents.
Governor Kemp emphasized fiscal responsibility, saying, “Here in Georgia, we safeguard every dollar of taxpayer money because we know it belongs to the people, not the government.”
Georgia’s approach stands out nationally. While other states are holding onto budget surpluses, Georgia is using its extra funds to offer direct financial relief, positioning itself as a leader in taxpayer-first policy.
As for the rumors of $2,000 checks circulating on social media, they appear to be unrelated to this specific rebate program and lack official confirmation.
Residents should continue to check the Georgia Department of Revenue’s website or their tax preparer for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their individual refund status.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Georgia $500 rebate?
Anyone who had a 2023 tax liability, filed 2023 and 2024 Georgia returns, and isn’t claimed as a dependent is eligible.
When will I receive the payment?
If you filed by May 1, 2025, payments begin in June. Those who filed for an extension will receive theirs after filing by October 15, 2025.
Is the rebate taxable?
No, the rebate is not considered taxable income.