Tax rebates begin for Georgians as candidates weigh in on surplus
ATLANTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Georgia residents are beginning to receive tax rebate checks because of a state budget surplus that has grown to more than $16 billion.
The refunds, backed by Gov. Brian Kemp, are part of a continuing effort to return a portion of the surplus to taxpayers.
“Because we’ve managed our state’s resources wisely, we’re again able to return money to hardworking Georgians who know how best to use it,” said Kemp. “Along with our acceleration of the largest income tax rate cut in state history, this latest refund is just one more way we’re working to the people of our state, their families, and their businesses. Because that’s not the government’s money, it’s theirs.”
Single filers are expected to receive up to $250, while married couples filing tly could see as much as $500. The rebates mark the third year in a row Kemp has pushed for such refunds, with the latest round expected to cost the state more than $1 billion.
For residents like Jasmine Malone, the extra funds are meaningful.
SC health department gives 7 tips to fight off mosquitoes
The South Carolina Department of Public Health is offering advice to help you avoid a pesky warm-weather nuisance.
“It could probably pay my light bill. It can help with groceries,” Malone said.
As Kemp finishes his final term, attention is turning to the growing field of candidates vying to replace him — and how they plan to manage the state’s financial reserves.
State Sen. Jason Esteves, who ed the rebate initiative, said he favors continuing the program but also sees an opportunity to make broader investments.
“In my opinion, we can do both — especially when you have as much money as we do sitting in a bank or being hoarded by a state leader,” Esteves said.
Esteves said he s using surplus funds to help small businesses, expand Medicaid, and increase education funding.
Broad Street Ministry Center expands services for those in need
Broad Street Ministry Center provides clothes, food, job assistance, and even has an adult literacy program.
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said she would consider eliminating the state income tax for teachers and wants to target investments in underserved communities, while still recognizing effective policies from the current istration.
“I don’t believe in coming in as an elected official throwing everything out because it’s somebody else’s idea,” Bottoms said. “You look at what’s worked well, what can work better, and how we can deliver to the people of Georgia.”
Attorney General Chris Carr, also running for governor as a Republican, was unavailable for an interview but issued a statement highlighting a more cautious approach.
Richmond County Sheriff’s Office plans to address teen violence
Many people living in Augusta are wondering what is the county’s plan to reduce youth violence during the summer.
“My job isn’t to spend every surplus dollar — it’s to plan for the day there isn’t one,” Carr said. “That means budgeting conservatively, as Gov. Kemp has done.”
State Rep. Derrick Jackson, who announced his intent to run on Tuesday, s removing income taxes for nurses, teachers, veterans, and seniors. He argues that Georgia has more than enough reserves to justify increased spending.
“We’ve already greatly exceeded the rainy day fund,” Jackson said. “I think those who say, ‘Let’s keep the money for a rainy day,’ are already spending it.”
Taxpayers can check their eligibility using the surplus tax refund eligibility tool.
Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
