In addition to the federal refunds managed by the IRS, multiple state governments are issuing tax refunds that can reach up to $500. These local payments represent an additional benefit during tax season, returning money to citizens that is rightfully theirs when they have overpaid.
These refunds occur when tax agencies determine that a taxpayer overpaid their tax obligations. While most federal refunds have already been distributed, several states maintain active programs to claim these funds. Here we detail the initiatives, starting with the states mentioned at the end of the original text and ending with the first:
Tax refunds ready to claim in Colorado, New Jersey, California, North Carolina, and Georgia
Colorado, the Centennial State, is processing refunds for residents who filed their returns correctly and on time. The Colorado Department of Revenue does not set fixed amounts, as each case depends on the individual tax situation. Taxpayers who met the April 15 deadline are eligible to recover these funds.
New Jersey is also returning money to its residents, either through overpayments or through the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit (NJEITC). The refundable amount varies based on income, deductions, and eligibility for relief programs.
The Tax Division confirms that those who filed before April 15, 2025 (or October 15 with an extension) and have a credit balance can access these funds.
In the Golden State, which is California, refunds are based on overpayments or claimed credits like the CalEITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) or the YCTC (Young Child Credit).
The Federal Tax Board (FTB) emphasizes that there is no standard number, as it depends entirely on each return. Taxpayers who filed within the deadline are eligible, including those affected by natural disasters, with an extension to October 15, 2025.
In North Carolina, the refund value is calculated based on income, deductions, and credits (such as the Earned Income Credit) on the 2024 return. The Department of Revenue (NCDOR) indicates eligibility for timely filers (electronic or paper) with a credit balance.
Direct deposits take from 3 to 6 weeks, while physical checks can take up to 12 weeks. After delays with a printing provider were resolved in May 2025, all outstanding refunds for returns filed before April 15 are expected to be sent by October 2025.
Georgia stands out with one-time refund checks that began issuing in June 2025, authorized by House Bill 112. This was made possible thanks to conservative budget management and a strong state economy. Most taxpayers who correctly filed their 2023 and 2024 tax returns with a credit balance are eligible.
The amounts are: $250 (single or married filing separately), $375 (heads of household), and $500 (married filing jointly). Distribution will continue in the coming weeks, with details available on the DOR website.
