As the new year unfolds, many Coloradans are turning their attention to the $1,600 TABOR Refund expected in 2025. This refund is part of the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR)—a Colorado constitutional amendment passed in 1992 that limits the amount of revenue the state can retain and spend. When revenues exceed this cap, the state is required to return the surplus to taxpayers, which is exactly what’s happening in 2025.
With a higher budget than in previous years, this year’s TABOR Refund is a significant opportunity for Colorado residents. Here’s a complete guide to understanding how it works, who qualifies, and how to make sure you receive your refund.
What Is the TABOR Refund?
TABOR ensures that when Colorado collects more tax revenue than it’s allowed to spend—adjusted annually for inflation and population growth—it must return the extra funds to taxpayers. The refund can come in various forms, including direct payments, tax credits, or rebates. For 2025, the state has announced a $1,600 refund per individual taxpayer as part of a broad surplus redistribution.
This year’s refund is larger due to higher-than-expected revenue growth, and eligible Coloradans will see the money returned through direct deposit or paper checks based on how they file their taxes.
$1,600 TABOR Refund 2025: Key Details
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Refund Amount | $1,600 per individual, $3,200 for joint filers |
| Location | Colorado |
| Program | Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) Refund |
| Eligibility | 2022 tax return filers who are residents in 2024 |
| Issued By | Colorado Department of Revenue |
| Payment Date | Starting Spring 2025 (March–May, depending on filing date) |
| Official Website | tax.colorado.gov/TABOR |
Why Is There a Refund in 2025?
Colorado’s budget laws, under TABOR, cap how much revenue the state can collect and retain. If the state collects more than this cap, it must return the surplus to taxpayers. In 2025, the state has again exceeded this limit, prompting a refund to those who paid state income taxes.
This reflects the state’s commitment to financial transparency and to ensuring that taxpayer money is returned when it’s not legally allowed to be kept or spent.
Who Is Eligible?
To receive the 2025 TABOR Refund, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Filed a Colorado State Income Tax Return
You must have filed your 2024 tax return (filed in 2025). Filing is how the state determines your refund eligibility and delivery method.
2. Be a Colorado Resident
You must be a resident for all or part of the tax year. Partial-year residents may qualify for a partial refund, depending on the length of residency and other circumstances.
3. Individual Taxpayer
TABOR Refunds go to individuals, not businesses or corporate entities. Dependents listed on someone else’s tax return may not be eligible for a full refund unless filing separately.
4. Age Requirements
There are no minimum age restrictions, but eligibility depends on your filing status and whether you’re counted as a dependent.
How Much Will You Receive?
The standard refund is $1,600 per eligible taxpayer. If you file jointly with a spouse and both of you qualify, your combined refund will be $3,200. These amounts could change slightly if state revenue projections shift or new legislation is introduced, but this is the current expected amount.
When Will You Get the TABOR Refund?
Payment timing depends on when you file your 2024 tax return:
- Early Filers (February–March 2025): Expect refunds between March and May 2025
- Mid-Year Filers: Payment follows within 6–8 weeks of your return being processed
- Late Filers: May receive refunds closer to end of 2025, depending on processing volume
Refunds are delivered as direct deposits or paper checks, based on the information provided in your tax return.
How to Claim the TABOR Refund
Follow these steps to ensure you receive your refund:
1. File Your 2024 Colorado Income Tax Return
This is the only way to claim the refund. The state uses this to verify eligibility and process payments.
2. Choose Direct Deposit
Opt in for direct deposit when filing your taxes to get your refund faster.
3. Submit an Accurate and Complete Return
Ensure your name, Social Security number, residency information, and bank account details are correct to avoid delays.
4. Check for Updates
Keep an eye on updates from the Colorado Department of Revenue for final dates and any changes to eligibility or distribution.
What Happens If You Don’t File?
If you fail to file your Colorado income tax return, you will not receive the TABOR Refund. Even if you’re not required to pay taxes, filing a return is necessary for the state to recognize your eligibility. Non-filers risk losing out on their share of the refund.
Can Partial-Year Residents Qualify?
Yes, but the refund will likely be pro-rated based on how long you lived in Colorado during the tax year. Each case is reviewed based on the details in your tax return.
FAQs
Do I have to file taxes to get the refund?
Yes. You must file a Colorado state income tax return for the 2024 tax year in 2025 to receive the refund.
How much is the refund?
The expected refund is $1,600 per individual or $3,200 for joint filers, depending on eligibility.
When will payments be sent?
The expected refund is $1,600 per individual or $3,200 for joint filers, depending on eligibility.
Can I get my refund as direct deposit?
Yes. If you include your bank account information in your tax return, the refund will be deposited directly.
What if I’m a dependent?
Dependents typically are not eligible for the full refund unless they file their own tax return and meet all criteria.
