This year, many residents in Georgia and South Carolina are set to receive a state rebate of up to $800. This money isn’t a loan—it’s a direct refund of extra tax dollars the state held onto. But not everyone will qualify, and the exact amounts and timelines differ by state. Here’s a full breakdown for both.
What Is a State Tax Rebate?
A state tax rebate means the government gives back money because it collected more taxes than it needed. These rebates show that your state is working under balanced budgets and is ready to return surplus cash to people. It’s a way to help households manage rising costs.
Georgia’s $500 Rebate: But Up to $800?
In Georgia, lawmakers in spring 2025 approved a big rebate under HB 112, funded by the state’s record surplus.
- Joint filers receive up to $500
- Heads of household: $375
- Single taxpayers: $250
Georgia considers this a “surplus tax refund.” To get it, you must file both 2023 and 2024 tax returns by May 1, 2025 (with extension also allowed if needed) . Most payments start in June 2025, arriving 6–8 weeks after filing .
Although the top is $500, some sources say the full rebate could reach $800 based on taxable income and filing status, especially if a super-surplus prompts a higher payout .
South Carolina’s Flat $800 Rebate
South Carolina is offering a simpler rebate: up to $800 based on your 2021 tax filing.
- If your tax liability (after credits) is < $800, you’ll receive that exact amount
- If it’s more than $800, you’ll get the cap of $800
To qualify, you needed to file your 2021 state return by October 17, 2022, or by February 15, 2023 if extended . Most refunds were sent in late 2022 or early 2023 – but a few may arrive later .
Who Qualifies?
Georgia:
- Resident for all of 2024
- Filed 2023 and 2024 state returns by May 1, 2025 (or extension)
South Carolina:
- Resident during 2021
- Filed 2021 tax return before the October deadline (or by February extension)
When Will You Get the Money?
Georgia:
- June 2025 onward for those who filed on time
- Expect 6–8 weeks after filing for direct deposits or checks
South Carolina:
- Most payments sent late 2022 to early 2023
- Delayed payments still may arrive if you filed close to the deadline.
Will It Affect Your Federal Taxes?
The IRS is reviewing whether state rebates are taxable. However, for South Carolina, rebates are not taxed by the state, and the IRS likely won’t tax it for federal purposes either .
Georgia has similar rules: rebates aren’t taxed here, and federal changes likely won’t apply.
Whether you’re living in Georgia or South Carolina, a state rebate up to $800 could be headed your way. To get it:
- Georgia: File both tax years by May 1, 2025 – payments start June 2025.
- South Carolina: If you filed your 2021 return by the deadlines, you should already have received your rebate—or may still get it.
These rebates help families through cost increases and reward good financial planning by the states. Watch your bank account or mailbox this summer—your refund might be closer than you think.
FAQs
Q1: Why the difference between states?
Each state uses its own budget rules. Georgia’s rebate varies by filing status and income, while South Carolina offers a fixed cap of $800.
Q2: Do I need to file again to get the rebate?
In Georgia, yes—file both 2023 and 2024 returns by May 1, 2025. In South Carolina, no—if you already filed 2021, you’re set.
Q3: How will I get the money?
Payments are sent by direct deposit or paper check, based on how you filed.
Q4: Is the rebate taxable?
No—it’s not taxed by the state, and likely not by the IRS either.
Q5: What if I missed the deadline?
If you missed, you may still file a late return (Georgia allows extensions, South Carolina has deadlines). Sometimes late payments are still sent if filing is accepted.
