Some Georgia Families can receive up to $1,000 in total tax relief That’s according to a revised 2026 state budget approved by lawmakers, Newsweek reported. The plan, which would return about $2 billion in surplus funds to taxpayers, is before Gov. Brian Kemp for consideration.
The Georgia Senate passed the revised budget 49-0, while the House of Representatives passed the budget with only two Republican dissenting votes, The Center Square and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
Supporters say the relief measure would combine income tax rebates with property tax cuts funded by surplus revenue.
Who is eligible and how much?
Under the program, married couples filing jointly can receive an income tax rebate of up to $500, heads of households can receive an income tax rebate of up to $375, and single filers or married individuals filing separately can receive an income tax rebate of up to $250, according to Georgia Department of Revenue guidance on HB 112 cited in the report.
Also read: Will Americans be eligible for bigger tax refunds in 2026? what to know
Additionally, lawmakers allocated $850 million for property tax relief. Supporters say when the two measures are combined, many families could receive benefits close to $1,000.
According to “The Center Square”, House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. Matt Hatchett said: “In these two relief measures, the agency will return $2 billion to the citizens of the state. This means that many families may receive up to $1,000 in taxpayer funds this year.”
Refunds are expected to be issued using the payment method selected on taxpayer” returns are typically processed six to eight weeks after the filing deadline.
Also read: New $10,000 IRS tax deduction: Who’s eligible and how to apply. Details are out
where does the money come from
Hatchett said the revised revenue estimate incorporates $12.49 billion in unspecified surplus funds and $145 million in lottery reserves, bringing the revised budget total to about $43.66 billion, up from the original $42.3 billion forecast.
In addition to the tax relief, the budget restores a one-time $2,000 wage subsidy for state employees and teachers.
Lawmakers also approved construction of a new $409 million forensic mental health facility, said to be the first of its kind in more than 60 years.
The mid-year spending plan now awaits the governor’s decision.
