State tax refunds are a valuable addition to tax season because, in addition to the refunds managed and sent by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), these payments return money to taxpayers that, by law, belongs to them.
Tax refunds are generated when the IRS or state tax agencies conclude that a taxpayer has already paid more than their fair share of taxes, and that money is actually owed from the respective tax system (federal or state, or both).
While most federal tax refunds are already on the way or have been delivered, some states still have active plans that, if you qualify, you can claim.
State tax refunds still available: the case of Georgia
Tax refunds are being distributed in several states, which are of local rather than federal scope. This is the case in Georgia, which is issuing special checks starting in June 2025, according to an announcement by the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR).
Georgia Taxpayers to Receive BONUS Refunds as Billions Are Released
On June 2, Governor Brian P. Kemp and the DOR announced that one-time tax refund checks will begin to be issued over the next few days. This is thanks to the passage of House Bill 112 during the 2025 legislative session and is a direct result of conservative budgeting practices and a strong state economy. Most taxpayers who filed their 2023 and 2024 tax returns on time and correctly are eligible, provided they are owed refunds. These will be issued in the coming weeks.
The checks will be $250 for single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately; $375 for heads of household; and $500 for married individuals filing jointly. For more details, including FAQs and refund tracking, you could visit its official website.
Tax refunds in North Carolina: Who’s eligible and how long to wait
In North Carolina, the amount of your tax refund issued this holiday depends entirely on the income, deductions, and credits claimed on your 2024 tax return.
According to the North Carolina Department of Revenue (NCDOR), taxpayers who filed their tax return on time, either electronically or on paper, and who have a credit balance resulting in a check, are eligible. This includes residents who paid more taxes than they owed or who are eligible for credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit.
Electronic refunds with direct deposit are typically processed in 3 to 6 weeks, while paper checks can take up to 12 weeks. In 2025, NCDOR experienced delays with paper checks due to issues with its printing vendor, but processing resumed on May 21, 2025.
Pending refunds for returns filed before April 15 are expected to be sent by October 2025, including those who requested a special deadline extension until October 15.
State Tax Refunds in California: CalEITC and YCTC
In the Golden State, tax refunds are being sent to eligible taxpayers who filed their 2024 tax returns on time. Refunds vary depending on the amount of tax overpaid or on credits claimed, such as the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) or the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC). The California Tax Board (FTB) doesn’t specify a fixed amount; it depends entirely on each individual’s tax situation.
Residents who filed their declaration on time are eligible, including those affected by natural disasters with deadlines extended to October 15, 2025.
Tax Refunds in New Jersey
Another state that is refunding overpaid taxes to its taxpayers is New Jersey, which processes checks based on the excess taxes paid by its taxpayers, or if the New Jersey Earned Income Tax Credit (NJEITC) was claimed.
The amount a NJ taxpayer can claim varies depending on income, deductions, and eligibility for tax relief programs. According to the New Jersey Division of Taxation, taxpayers who filed their return before April 15, 2025 (or October 15 with an extension) and have a credit balance are eligible.
Colorado also returns money to its taxpayers
In the Centennial State, tax refunds are also being distributed to permanent residents who filed their tax returns on time and correctly.
The Colorado Department of Revenue does not report fixed amounts, as each case is independent. As in other states, those who filed their tax returns on time before April 15 are eligible to claim the money.
