Still waiting for your extra refund from GA? Here’s when to expect it

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The extra tax refunds from the state of Georgia are starting to roll out. Have you gotten yours?

Credit: Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

As folks await their extra tax refund, many Georgia taxpayers are wondering exactly when they’ll see their state refunds and what to expect next.

Here’s what we know now, plus some answers to a few of the most pressing refund-related questions.

When can you expect your refund?

In a press release dated June 2, Governor Brian Kemp and the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) announced that the state started issuing one-time, special tax refunds the week of the release.

The DOR did not announce an exact date for the bonus refund, but most taxpayers can expect their refunds to arrive within four to six weeks from the date their return was accepted.

How will you receive your refund?

If you filed electronically and chose direct deposit, your refund will likely arrive faster, often within two to three weeks.

• The fastest and most secure way to get your refund is by direct deposit. If you provided your bank account information when you filed, your money will be deposited directly.

However, if you mailed a paper return, it can take up to eight weeks or more to process.

Your check will be mailed to the address on your tax return.

Important FAQs for Georgia Taxpayers

How can I check my refund status?

Visit the Georgia Department of Revenue’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool online.

You’ll need:

• Social Security number
• Refund status
• The exact amount of your expected refund.

What if I made a mistake on my return?

If you need to correct your return form, complete the 500X Amended Individual Income Tax Return form on the Department of Revenue’s website.

However, be aware that processing may be delayed while your return is reviewed.

What should I do if I haven’t received my refund after eight weeks?

Check the DOR’s Georgia Surplus Tax Refund website for the most up-to-date information.

The DOR discourages inquiry by phone and advises, ”our phone lines are typically very busy this time of year, and our call center representatives have the same information available to you online.”

Is my refund taxable?

Generally, state refunds are not taxable on your federal return unless you itemized deductions in a previous year and claimed a deduction for state taxes paid.

The IRS defines itemized deductions as specific expenses you can list on your tax return like mortgage interest, medical expenses, state and local taxes, or charitable donations to reduce your taxable income.

To check your itemized deductions:

• If last year’s return included a Schedule A, you itemized deductions.
• Look at line 12a on your Form 1040. If the amount isn’t a round number (like $0, $50 or $00), you probably itemized.
• If you took the standard deduction, there won’t be a Schedule A with your return.

With various factors that could affect the timeline of your refund, wait at least eight weeks before you panic.

Your best bet for determining your status is to use the Surplus Tax Refund Eligibility Tool on the Georgia Department of Revenue’s website.

To check your status, you’ll need:

• Social Security
• Tax ID number
• 2023 federal adjusted gross income

Have you received your extra refund already? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with the Macon Telegraph.