When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, millions of American families found themselves in sudden financial distress. Jobs disappeared overnight, businesses shuttered, and households across the country were left wondering how to make ends meet. At that critical moment, federal stimulus checks emerged as a lifeline—injecting much-needed cash into the hands of low-income families and jumpstarting local economies.
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Although the nationwide stimulus payments have now ended, the legacy of those programs lives on. Several U.S. states have picked up the torch, adapting localized relief measures to continue supporting their residents. One of the standout programs? Colorado’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), which may deliver a rebate of up to $1,600 to qualifying households in 2025.
🔎 Rumors of a Federal $800 Stimulus in April 2025: Fact or Fiction?
In recent weeks, rumors have swirled about a potential $800 federal stimulus check slated for April 2025. While the buzz has generated considerable public interest, there is currently no confirmed federal payment planned for that date.
But there’s good news: state-level relief is very real, and in some cases, even more generous than what’s being speculated at the federal level.
🏔️ Colorado’s TABOR Program: A Real Lifeline in 2025
Among the most impactful initiatives is Colorado’s TABOR refund program, a policy rooted in state law that requires surplus tax revenue to be returned to taxpayers. For the fiscal year 2024, Colorado anticipates returning about $1.4 billion in refunds to eligible residents during spring 2025.
Thanks to this program:
- Joint filers could receive up to $1,600.
- Single filers may also receive substantial rebates, depending on income and eligibility.
📝 How the TABOR Refund Works in 2025
A recent change in state law has refined how TABOR benefits are distributed. Starting this year, refunds will only be issued when the state experiences a significant revenue surplus—which is exactly the case for fiscal year 2024.
Here’s what you can expect in 2025:
✅ Income Tax Rate Reduction
Everyone who files a 2024 state tax return will benefit from a temporary reduction in the income tax rate, dropping from 4.40% to 4.25%.
✅ Sales Tax Refund
Full-year Colorado residents can claim a sales tax refund by filing either:
- A 2024 Colorado Individual Income Tax Return, or
- A 2024 Property/Rent/Heat (PTC) Rebate Application,
by the deadline of October 15, 2025.
📌 Who Is Eligible for the TABOR Refund?
To qualify for the TABOR rebate, you must meet the following criteria:
- 📅 File a 2024 Colorado income tax return or a PTC Rebate Application by April 15, 2025.
- 🏡 Live in Colorado for at least half of the 2024 tax year.
- 🎂 Be at least 18 years old by January 1, 2025.
Understanding the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit Eligibility and Deadline for Stimulus Payments
$1,702 Stimulus Payments Arriving in Bank Accounts This March
The Financial Crises Many Citizens Face Need Knowing How to Get Double $600 + $750 Stimulus Checks
$134 Day Social Security checks Approved By SSA: Know Your Eligibility, Payment, and Dates
DOGE Stimulus Check 2025: Is the $5,000 Payment Coming? Eligibility, Payout Dates & Latest Updates
IRS $8700 Stimulus Check Update: Payment Details, Eligibility, and Key Information
💻 How to Apply for Your TABOR Refund
Applying is straightforward but requires attention to detail:
- Fill out the appropriate online form.
- Attach all required documentation.
- Double-check your information before submitting to avoid delays.
Refund amounts will vary depending on your adjusted gross income, filing status, and other factors outlined by the Colorado Department of Revenue.
💬 Final Thought
While federal stimulus checks may no longer be active, state-run programs like Colorado’s TABOR refunds are stepping up to provide real financial relief when it’s needed most. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just recently moved to the Centennial State, this could be your opportunity to reclaim part of the economic pie.