Atlanta, Georgia, August 5, 2025
News Summary
The Georgia Department of Revenue has disbursed nearly 3 million tax refunds totaling over $1 billion, which is over 90% of the expected refunds for the year. Taxpayers who filed their 2024 returns on an extension can anticipate additional refunds in October. Eligible individuals can receive up to $500 as a one-time state income tax refund, and these refunds are non-taxable. The initiative aims to provide financial relief to taxpayers, following similar refund programs in recent years.
Atlanta, Georgia — The Georgia Department of Revenue has issued nearly 3 million tax refunds amounting to over $1 billion. This significant amount represents just over 90% of the total refunds the department expects to provide this year, with a total of $1,006,766,461.54 already distributed to eligible taxpayers.
In October, the department plans to issue additional refunds for taxpayers who filed their 2024 returns on an extension. Taxpayers can determine their eligibility for these refunds using the surplus tax refund eligibility tool available through the Georgia Tax Center. To check their status, they need to provide their tax year, social security number or tax identification number, and federal adjusted gross income.
Eligible individuals are entitled to receive up to $500 as a one-time special state income tax refund. This refund initiative was authorized by House Bill 112, which was signed into law by the governor in April. Once the department processes the 2024 state returns, these refunds will be issued accordingly. Those who opted for direct deposit when filing their taxes will receive their money directly in their bank accounts, while paper checks will be mailed to those who filed by mail.
According to Georgia law, the tax refunds are not considered taxable income; however, they may be subject to reduction or offset if the recipient has outstanding debts to the state. It is also important to note that no interest will be paid on these refund amounts.
This round of tax refunds marks the third special issuance of its kind in recent years, following similar refunds in 2022 and 2023. In addition to the refunds, the state’s income tax rate will decrease from 5.39% to 5.19% for taxpayers filing in the upcoming year, further benefiting residents.
The governor has asserted that these refunds are designed to return money to hardworking Georgians. The State Revenue Commissioner has expressed the department’s commitment to efficiently and securely issue these refunds, ensuring that funds are properly distributed to eligible taxpayers.
Taxpayers looking to qualify for the upcoming refunds must have submitted their returns by the deadline of May 1. With these initiatives in place, Georgia aims to provide financial relief to its citizens during this fiscal year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount of tax refunds issued by the Georgia Department of Revenue?
As of now, the Georgia Department of Revenue has issued a total of $1,006,766,461.54 in tax refunds.
How can taxpayers check their eligibility for refunds?
Taxpayers can check their eligibility using the surplus tax refund eligibility tool on the Georgia Tax Center by entering their tax year, social security number or tax identification number, and federal adjusted gross income.
When will the next round of refunds be issued?
Another round of refunds is scheduled to be issued in October for taxpayers who filed their 2024 returns on an extension.
What is the maximum refund amount eligible taxpayers can receive?
Eligible taxpayers can receive up to $500 as a one-time special state income tax refund.
Are the tax refunds taxable income?
No, tax refunds issued by the Georgia Department of Revenue are not considered taxable income under state law.
When is the deadline for filing taxes to qualify for the refunds?
Taxpayers must have filed their taxes by May 1 to qualify for the refunds expected in the coming weeks.
Key Features of Georgia Tax Refunds
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Refunds Issued | $1,006,766,461.54 |
| Eligible Taxpayers | Those who filed their returns by May 1 |
| Refund Amount | Up to $500 |
| Next Refund Issuance | In October 2024 for extended filers |
| Tax Return Usage | Surplus tax refund eligibility tool |
| Tax Refund Tax Status | Not taxable under Georgia law |
| Interest on Refunds | No interest will be paid |
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- WSB TV
- National Law Review
- 11Alive
- Wikipedia: Tax Refund
- Google Search: Georgia tax refunds
- Google Scholar: Georgia tax refunds
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Taxation
- Google News: Georgia tax refunds
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
