Georgia begins sending out special tax refunds — here’s who qualifies
More than $1 billion in refunds now being sent to eligible taxpayers
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- Georgia taxpayers could start seeing extra money in their accounts soon.
Gov. Brian Kemp and the Georgia Department of Revenue say the state has begun issuing one-time special tax refunds approved during the 2026 legislative session.
The refunds, authorized by House Bill 1000, are expected to return more than $1 billion to taxpayers across the state. It’s also the fourth time similar refunds have been issued under Kemp’s administration, following payments in 2022, 2023 and 2025.
“Georgians know best how to spend their money, not the government,” Kemp said in a statement. “That’s why we’re committed to putting more of it back in their pockets.”
Who can expect a refund
If you filed both your 2024 and 2025 Georgia income tax returns before the deadline, you may be eligible.
To qualify, you must:
- Have filed both returns
- Have paid state income taxes
- Not owe money to the state
Officials say most eligible taxpayers should receive their refund in the coming weeks.
How much you could get
The amount depends on your tax filing status, but there are caps:
- $250 for single filers or married filing separately
- $375 for head of household
- $500 for married couples filing jointly
David Burge said the agency is prepared to process payments quickly.
“Our team is ready to deliver these refunds efficiently and securely,” Burge said. “We’ve built a process that prioritizes accuracy and speed.”
How to check your refund
If you’re wondering whether you qualify — or when your money is coming — you can check your status using the Surplus Tax Refund Eligibility Tool through the Georgia Tax Center.
State officials say payments will continue rolling out over the next several weeks.
