Colorado residents are in for a brighter summer in 2025, thanks to substantial TABOR refund checks. These payments, reaching up to $1,600, are not stimulus checks or special government handouts—they’re tax refunds generated from excess revenue collected by the state. With a $1.7 billion surplus from 2024, Colorado is redistributing money back to taxpayers, as mandated by the state’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR). For many, this windfall could go toward travel plans, home upgrades, or catching up on household expenses.
Why Are Coloradans Getting a TABOR Refund?
Colorado’s TABOR law, enacted in the early 1990s, caps the amount of revenue the state can collect and spend each fiscal year. If revenues exceed this cap, the excess must be returned to the taxpayers. In 2024, state revenue outpaced the cap by about $1.7 billion, triggering one of the most generous TABOR refunds in recent memory.
Under the current plan, single tax filers are expected to receive $800, while joint filers can expect $1,600. These are flat-rate payments, meaning everyone receives the same amount regardless of income level. That includes working professionals, retirees, and even students, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.
However, TABOR isn’t without controversy. Critics argue that the law limits Colorado’s ability to fund essential public services. A new bill introduced in the Colorado House could lead to a legal review or modification of TABOR, potentially reshaping future refund opportunities.
Who Qualifies for the Refund?
To receive a TABOR refund in 2025, residents must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a full-year resident of Colorado in 2024
- Must be at least 18 years old by January 1, 2025
- Must file a 2024 Colorado state income tax return by October 15, 2025
Citizens who filed by April 15, 2025, should have already received their payments by the end of April. Those filing later can expect to wait up to 60 days after their return is processed.
For low-income residents who typically don’t file taxes, there’s still a way to qualify. They must apply for the Property Tax, Rent, Heat (PTC) Rebate and submit their application by the same October 15 deadline.
It’s also worth noting that this year’s TABOR refund is combined with the regular state tax refund. Taxpayers must opt in by selecting a checkbox on their tax return. Failing to do so may result in missing the refund entirely.
What Can Residents Expect to Receive?
While the $800 and $1,600 flat rates have been widely publicized, recent adjustments show that not all residents will receive the same amount. For some, refunds will be income-based:
| Filing Status | Income-Based Refund Range |
|---|---|
| Single Filer | $177 – $565 |
| Joint Filer | $354 – $1,130 |
Despite these ranges, the Colorado Department of Revenue has confirmed that filers who met the deadline in 2024 are still on track for the full $800 or $1,600, especially those who filed early.
The Future of TABOR Payments
The 2025 refund could be the last big TABOR check for a while. Beginning in 2026, new tax credits and deductions signed into law by Governor Jared Polis will reduce future surplus amounts. Forecasts suggest refunds could shrink to just $41 for single filers and $82 for joint filers.
TABOR remains a hot-button issue in Colorado politics. While many residents support getting money back, others question its long-term effects on public infrastructure, education, and healthcare funding.
For now, though, Coloradans can look forward to a substantial check in 2025—perfect timing for planning summer fun or managing personal expenses.
FAQs:
What is TABOR?
TABOR (Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights) is a Colorado law that limits how much revenue the state can collect and spend. Any surplus must be returned to taxpayers.
How do I know if I qualify for the refund?
You must have lived in Colorado for all of 2024, be at least 18 by January 1, 2025, and file your 2024 state tax return by October 15, 2025.
Is the refund based on my income?
While the standard refund is $800 or $1,600, some residents may receive a different amount based on an income-tiered schedule.