HOUSTON COUNTY, Ga. — Georgia taxpayers will receive another round of tax rebates next spring as part of Governor Brian Kemp's plan to return over $1 billion to residents amid ongoing inflation concerns.
"Inflation may have fallen, but high prices are still here and weighing down hardworking Georgians every time they go to the grocery store, the gas pump, and so many other places in our daily lives," Kemp said during Tuesday's announcement.
The rebate will mirror previous amounts: $250 for single filers, $375 for head-of-household filers, and $500 for married couples filing jointly.
"Obviously any money that you get back is very helpful," said Perry resident Kollyn Lawson, who has two children in college, "But then again, to some people it's kind of a drop in the bucket. I mean, there's more needed."
The announcement comes as Georgia maintains a historic $16 billion budget surplus.
"Georgia's strong conservative leadership and strategic fiscal policies have created a historic $16 billion budget surplus," said Speaker Jon Burns, "And we're proud that we've been able to continue investing in everything from healthcare and education to infrastructure and workforce development."
Financial advisor Sherri Goss, President of Rosenberg Financial Group, sees one common concern among her clients.
"Everybody that I meet with, every one of my clients complains about the price of groceries," Goss said. "So that is probably what they're gonna do is they're gonna take the money and go to the store."
For local business owners like Dan Arledge of Simply Southern Sweets in Perry, the rebate could mean increased customer spending.
"Anytime there's extra money in people's pockets they're gonna feel like they can spend more on what they have," said Arledge. "It will benefit us, I'm sure."
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must file state tax returns by regular deadline or have approved extension
- Can only receive up to the amount paid in state taxes
- Must have filed returns for 2023 and 2024 tax years
Goss advises those receiving paper checks to be vigilant about mail theft.
"Mail theft is through the roof," said Goss. "People are taking mail out of personal mailboxes, those blue boxes on the sidewalk."
Between this latest measure and previous tax relief initiatives, including gas tax suspensions and income tax cuts, the Kemp administration says they are saving Georgia taxpayers over $6.6 billion.
The rebates are expected to be distributed in spring 2025, with electronic payments going to those who file online with bank instructions, while others will receive paper checks by mail.