If you’re a resident of Colorado, you’ve probably heard of the TABOR refund. The Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), a unique part of Colorado’s constitution, mandates that when the state collects more tax revenue than allowed, the excess must be refunded to the people. It’s a pretty sweet deal for taxpayers—money back in your pocket from the state’s surplus.
But what does the 2025 TABOR refund mean for you? How much will you receive, and when can you expect your refund? This guide answers all those questions and more, breaking down the Colorado TABOR Refund process in a way that’s easy to understand.
Colorado TABOR Refund 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Refund Amounts | Range from $177 (for individuals with an AGI under $53,000) to $565 for higher earners. |
| Filing Deadline | October 15, 2025. Refunds are issued based on when you file your taxes. |
| Eligibility | Full-year Colorado resident, at least 18 years old, and file a 2024 Colorado state income tax return or PTRH application. |
| When Refunds Arrive | Early filers should receive their refunds by late April, with later filers getting theirs by mid-October. |
| Where to Check | Colorado Department of Revenue’s TABOR page. |
The 2025 TABOR refund is your opportunity to get a portion of Colorado’s excess tax revenue back in your pocket. Whether you’re a single filer or married, the refund amounts vary based on your income and filing status. As long as you meet the eligibility requirements and file your taxes on time, the process is straightforward. Be sure to check the status of your refund using the official tools, and don’t forget to file for the Property Tax, Rent, and Heat (PTRH) rebate if you’re eligible.
What is the TABOR Refund, and Why is it Important?
The Basics of TABOR
TABOR, or the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights, was enacted in 1992 to limit government spending in Colorado. Under TABOR, the state cannot increase revenue beyond what’s allowed based on inflation and population growth. If the state collects more tax dollars than this limit, it must refund the excess to the taxpayers. This refund, called the TABOR refund, comes every year when there’s a surplus.
Colorado’s TABOR refund isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s a way to ensure that the state doesn’t overtax its residents. Every year, Coloradans receive a portion of the state’s surplus tax revenue, which is essentially the state giving back the money that wasn’t spent on public programs.
A Historical Look at TABOR
The TABOR amendment is unique to Colorado, and over the years, it has sparked debates and legal battles about how much the state should return and whether the refunds are fair. However, it remains a cornerstone of Colorado’s tax system. The refunds help keep state spending in check, ensuring that government doesn’t balloon unchecked.
2024 vs. 2025 TABOR Refund
| Feature | 2024 (Refunded in 2025) | 2025 (Refunded in 2026) |
| Refund Amount (Single Filer) | Projected at around $326 | Projected to decrease, with some forecasts showing a smaller amount due to recent legislation. |
| Refund Amount (Joint Filer) | Projected at around $652 | Projected to decrease. |
| Method | Sales Tax Refund (part of your state tax return) | Sales Tax Refund (part of your state tax return) |
| Key Factor | Surplus triggered by state revenue growth. | Surplus reduced by new tax credits and other legislative changes. |
How Much Can You Expect from Your TABOR Refund?
Refund amounts are based on Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and filing status. If you’re earning less than the median income, your refund will be smaller. But the higher your earnings, the bigger your refund.
TABOR Refund Breakdown for 2025:
- For Single Filers:
- Up to $53,000 AGI: $177 refund.
- $53,001–$105,000 AGI: $240 refund.
- $105,001–$166,000 AGI: $277 refund.
- $166,001–$233,000 AGI: $323 refund.
- $233,001–$311,000 AGI: $388 refund.
- $311,001 and up: $565 refund.
- For Joint Filers:
- Up to $53,000 AGI: $354 refund.
- $53,001–$105,000 AGI: $480 refund.
- $105,001–$166,000 AGI: $554 refund.
- $166,001–$233,000 AGI: $646 refund.
- $233,001–$311,000 AGI: $776 refund.
- $311,001 and up: $1,130 refund.
These figures are set by the Colorado Department of Revenue and reflect the state’s efforts to return excess tax revenue to its residents. The refunds vary depending on the tax bracket and filing status, which helps ensure that those who contribute more to the state’s economy receive larger refunds.
Why Are Refunds Based on Income?
Colorado’s system is designed to be progressive. This means that individuals who make more money typically contribute more to the state’s tax revenue and therefore receive a larger share of the refund. This system ensures fairness while still allowing all Colorado residents to benefit from the state’s financial surplus.
Real-Life Example
Let’s say you’re a single filer with an AGI of $60,000 in 2024. Based on the 2025 refund schedule, you would fall in the $53,001–$105,000 AGI range and receive $240 in your TABOR refund. If you’re a joint filer with a combined income of $120,000, you would qualify for the $480 refund.
How to Apply for Your TABOR Refund
Step 1: Ensure You’re Eligible
To qualify for the 2025 TABOR refund, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Be a full-year resident of Colorado.
- Be at least 18 years old by January 1, 2025.
- File a 2024 Colorado state income tax return (Form DR 0104) or a Property Tax, Rent, and Heat (PTRH) Rebate application (Form DR 0104PTC) by October 15, 2025.
Step 2: File Your 2024 Tax Return
Make sure you file your taxes by April 15, 2025, if you’re looking to get your refund early. You can file through the Colorado Department of Revenue website or use a tax filing service.
Step 3: Wait for Your Refund
After you file, the Colorado Department of Revenue will calculate your refund based on your AGI and filing status. Expect your refund by late April if you filed early, or by October for those filing closer to the deadline.
Top 3 Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to File a State Return: Even if you don’t owe any state taxes, you must file a Colorado income tax return to be eligible for the TABOR refund. It’s not an automatic payment.
- Not Updating Your Address: If you’ve moved since your last tax filing, make sure your address is current with the Colorado Department of Revenue to ensure your check goes to the right place.
- Expecting a Direct Deposit: While some refunds may be directly deposited with your tax return, TABOR refunds are often sent as a paper check. Don’t worry if it doesn’t show up in your bank account—it’s likely on its way in the mail.
Interactive Tools and Resources
To make sure you don’t miss out on your refund, use the Colorado Department of Revenue’s online tracking tool to monitor the status of your refund. This helps you stay updated and informed every step of the way.
FAQs About TABOR Refund 2025
1. When will I receive my TABOR refund?
For early filers, refunds will be issued by late April 2025. Later filers can expect theirs by October 2025.
2. How can I check the status of my TABOR refund?
You can check your refund status using the Colorado Department of Revenue’s portal at colorado.gov.
3. Do I need to apply separately for the PTRH rebate?
Yes. If you qualify for the Property Tax, Rent, and Heat (PTRH) rebate, you’ll need to apply separately. You can find more details and forms on the Colorado Department of Revenue’s website.
4. Can I get my refund faster with direct deposit?
Yes, if you choose direct deposit, your refund will typically arrive faster than by check.
5. What happens if I miss the filing deadline?
If you miss the deadline, you could forfeit your refund for the year. So, it’s crucial to file by October 15, 2025, to guarantee your refund.
