As 2025 approaches its final weeks, several U.S. states are rolling out last-minute tax rebates, inflation-relief payments, oil-dividend checks, and surplus refunds—all separate from the federal IRS system. These state-based programs are helping millions of Americans close out the year with a financial boost, especially as inflation and living costs remain high.
Some payments are already appearing in bank accounts, while others will continue through December and early January depending on processing schedules. Amounts vary widely based on state rules, income brackets, filing history, and residency requirements. Here’s a complete breakdown of which states are still sending money and what you may qualify for.
Why States Are Issuing Year-End Tax Refunds
Many states ended the fiscal year with budget surpluses or unused program funds, prompting a wave of rebates designed to return excess revenue to residents. Programs also include longstanding initiatives like Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend, which distributes annual oil-revenue payments.
For federal context on how state refunds differ from federal taxation, visit the Internal Revenue Service.
December Updates: Major Payment Activity
Notable programs delivering funds during December include:
- CalFresh (California): More than 5.5 million Californians receive boosted nutrition assistance payments—up to $1,789 for qualifying households.
- Alaska Oil Dividend: Around 600,000 Alaskans continue to receive yearly no-strings-attached oil-revenue payments.
- State-Level Stimulus Programs: A new wave of $1,000 checks hits eligible residents in one qualifying state on December 18.
These payouts operate independently from federal stimulus initiatives and are handled exclusively by state agencies.
Full List of States Sending Tax Refunds Before 2025 Ends
Below is the latest summary of states issuing refunds, rebates, or benefits as of December 2025:
| State | Program Name | Typical Amount | Payment Window | Eligibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) | $1,000–$1,300 | Final batch mid-December | Must have lived in AK throughout 2024; no disqualifying felonies |
| California | Middle Class Tax Refund (Round 2) | $200–$1,050 | Nov 25 – Dec 20 | Filed 2023 CA return and still a resident |
| Colorado | TABOR Refund | $300–$1,130 | All December | Must have filed recent Colorado tax return |
| Georgia | Surplus Tax Rebate | $250 single / $500 married | December payouts | Filed 2023–2024 Georgia taxes |
| Massachusetts | Chapter 62F Refund | Approx. 14% of 2021 tax liability | By Dec 15 | Eligible automatically if 2021 MA taxes were filed |
| Michigan | Working Families Credit (Expanded) | $150–$600 | Rolling through December | Low- to middle-income households |
| Minnesota | Family Inflation Relief Payment | $260 per adult + $260 per child | December direct deposits | Income caps apply; paid automatically |
| New Jersey | ANCHOR Property Tax Benefit | Avg. $450, up to $1,750 | Through Dec 31 | Homeowners earning under $150k; renters included |
| New York | Homeowner Inflation Refund | $150–$400 | Through early 2026 | Based on 2023 NY tax filing |
| Oregon | Oregon Kicker Credit | About 44% of your 2024 state tax | Appearing on December refunds | Claimable on 2024 return |
| Virginia | 2025 One-Time Rebate | $200 single / $400 joint | October–December | Must have a 2024 tax liability; filed by Nov 1 |
For updates on program requirements or specific eligibility rules, state residents can refer to the U.S. Department of the Treasury for official financial-program guidance.
What to Know Before Claiming Your State Tax Refund
Several practical considerations can help ensure faster, safer payments:
1. Direct Deposit Is the Fastest Route
Choosing direct deposit usually speeds up delivery by days or even weeks. Paper checks often face longer mailing and processing times, especially during the holiday season.
2. Watch for Scams Targeting Refund Recipients
The year-end refund period typically triggers a spike in fraudulent calls, texts, and emails. Remember:
- No legitimate state tax agency will ask for your Social Security number, bank login, or payment details through unsolicited messages.
- You never need to pay a fee to “unlock” or “fast-track” a state refund.
- If you receive suspicious contact, verify through your official state tax website.
3. Keep Tax Documents Ready
Some refunds are automatic, but others require filing updated tax returns or verifying residency requirements. Double-check deadlines to avoid missing your payment window.
