More than three million Colorado residents are set to receive refund payments this month under the state’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights, known as TABOR. These payments—often called “stimulus checks” by locals—range from $177 to $1,130 per person and are automatically issued to qualifying taxpayers. The program comes at a time when many families face higher living costs as winter approaches.
The TABOR refunds represent a direct return of excess state tax revenue to the people. Funded by the surplus collected in 2024, these payments are expected to put around $1.2 billion back into Colorado’s economy. State officials believe this relief will support residents through rising heating costs and encourage local spending during the year’s final quarter.
Understanding the Colorado TABOR Refund
The TABOR (Taxpayer Bill of Rights) Amendment is a state constitutional rule passed by Colorado voters in 1992. It limits government spending based on inflation and population growth and requires the state to refund any revenue collected beyond this limit. When tax collections exceed what the law allows, the extra money must go back to taxpayers rather than stay in state accounts.
This year, Colorado’s revenue once again crossed the threshold, triggering new refund distributions. The refunds are being sent out automatically and don’t require a special application, as long as residents filed their 2024 state tax returns.
Who Qualifies for the TABOR Refund
To receive the refund, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- You were a resident of Colorado for the entire 2024 tax year.
- You are age 18 or older.
- You have a valid Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- You were not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.
The refund amounts vary depending on tax filing status:
- Individuals: Between $177 and $1,130
- Joint filers: Up to $2,260
These amounts are determined by how much surplus revenue the state collected from the previous fiscal year.
How and When Payments Will Be Sent
The Colorado Department of Revenue began issuing payments on Monday. Delivery depends on how each taxpayer previously received their state tax refund:
- Direct Deposit: Residents who provided their bank account details will be the first to get their money.
- Mailed Checks: Paper checks are being mailed to taxpayers who did not set up direct deposit. Delivery may take several weeks depending on postal schedules.
- Extended Filers: Those who filed state tax returns after requesting an extension will receive their refunds later, during the scheduled November–December period.
This staggered payment plan helps the treasury office manage a high volume of transactions and ensures timely, controlled fund distribution.
A Look at the 1992 TABOR Amendment
Passed in 1992, the TABOR Amendment remains one of Colorado’s most debated fiscal policies. It was designed to keep government growth in check and ensure taxpayers receive refunds when state revenue exceeds its legal limit.
Critics, however, argue that limiting spending prevents adequate funding for public infrastructure and education. Supporters, including Governor Jared Polis, view TABOR as a cornerstone of fiscal fairness, emphasizing that excess tax revenue should always be returned to citizens rather than government agencies.
Over the past three years alone, the state has returned more than $3.3 billion to residents through TABOR refunds, according to official data.
Economic Impact and Benefits
By returning $1.2 billion this cycle, Colorado aims to stimulate local spending during the colder months and help households manage rising energy expenses. Economists note that such refunds can strengthen consumer confidence, especially as families face higher costs for food, heating, and housing.
While TABOR refunds may not completely offset the rising costs of living, they provide a modest but valuable financial cushion for millions of Coloradans.
Learn More and Track Your Refund
Residents can confirm refund details or check payment status directly through the Colorado Department of Revenue’s official website: https://tax.colorado.gov.
