$1130 Stimulus Checks: If you’ve been scrolling through social media or watching local news lately, you’ve probably heard talk about “$1,130 stimulus checks coming in December 2025.” It’s a hot topic across the United States, sparking both excitement and confusion. Some folks think the federal government is sending another round of relief checks, while others suspect it’s just another internet rumor. Let’s set the record straight: there is no new federal stimulus check being issued to all Americans in December 2025. However, there is a real $1,130 payment going out to many Colorado residents. This payment is part of Colorado’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) refund — a state-level refund designed to return excess tax revenue to taxpayers. In short, while it’s not a new national stimulus, it’s definitely real money for Coloradans who qualify. And if you live in another state, understanding how this works can help you keep an eye on your own state’s tax rebate programs.
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$1130 Stimulus Checks
The talk about $1,130 stimulus checks in December 2025 has caused plenty of confusion, but the facts are simple: this is a Colorado TABOR refund, not a federal stimulus. It’s the state’s way of returning extra revenue to taxpayers who kept Colorado’s economy strong. If you’re a Colorado resident, make sure your 2024 taxes are filed and your information is up to date. Refunds will keep rolling out through the end of the year, so keep an eye on your bank account or mailbox. Even if you’re outside Colorado, this refund is a reminder that staying informed about local and state-level tax laws can literally pay off.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Colorado TABOR (Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights) Refund |
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,130 per eligible individual |
| Eligibility | Full-year Colorado residents who filed 2024 state income taxes |
| Payment Type | State tax refund (not a federal stimulus) |
| Payment Timeline | Direct deposits: October–November 2025; Paper checks: Through December 2025 |
| Official Source | Colorado Department of Revenue (CDOR) |
| Tax Year | 2024 |
| Purpose | To return state revenue surpluses to taxpayers |
| Applies To | Individuals, couples, or joint filers residing in Colorado |
Understanding the $1130 Stimulus Checks
The phrase “stimulus check” can be misleading. What’s really happening here is that Colorado’s state government collected more revenue than it was legally allowed to keep. Under the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), passed by Colorado voters in 1992, the state must refund the extra money to residents whenever revenues exceed a constitutionally defined limit.
So instead of a new federal relief effort, the $1,130 check is a tax surplus refund, not a stimulus. Think of it like this: when the state’s budget does better than expected, taxpayers get a share of the extra revenue back.
According to the Colorado Office of State Planning and Budgeting, the 2024 fiscal year produced a revenue surplus exceeding $3 billion. The state decided to issue direct refunds to taxpayers — estimated at $1,130 per individual and roughly $2,260 for joint filers. This marks one of the largest TABOR refund distributions in recent history.
Who Qualifies for the $1130 Stimulus Checks?
Eligibility for this refund is fairly straightforward. To qualify, you must meet all of the following conditions:
- You were a full-year Colorado resident during 2024 (January 1 through December 31).
- You filed a 2024 Colorado state income tax return (Form DR 0104) on time.
- You have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- You are not claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.
That’s it — no complicated applications or extra steps. As long as you meet those requirements, you’ll automatically be eligible for the refund.
Non-filers can still qualify
If you didn’t earn enough income to file a state tax return, you can still receive the refund by completing the Property Tax/Rent/Heat (PTC) Rebate Form. This program helps low-income individuals, seniors, and disabled adults benefit from the TABOR refund.
How Much Will You Receive?
The 2025 TABOR refund is a flat-rate refund, meaning everyone gets the same amount, regardless of income level. For individual filers, the refund amount is approximately $1,130. Married couples filing jointly can expect up to $2,260 total.
This system ensures fairness and simplicity — every taxpayer benefits equally. In 2022, when the last major TABOR refund occurred, individuals received $750, and joint filers got $1,500. The 2025 refund is even higher, reflecting the state’s strong post-pandemic economic performance.
Payment Schedule and Timeline
Payments began going out in October 2025, starting with direct deposits. Those who opted for paper checks may see their refunds arrive later, extending into December 2025 or even early January 2026 for late filers.
Here’s the general timeline:
- Mid-October to Late November 2025: Direct deposits sent to bank accounts on file with the Colorado Department of Revenue.
- Late November to December 2025: Paper checks mailed to taxpayers who didn’t provide direct deposit information.
- January 2026: Refunds issued to those who filed late or made corrections to their returns.
Federal vs. State Payments: Clearing Up the Confusion
Many people confuse the Colorado TABOR refund with federal stimulus payments. However, they’re completely different programs.
| Feature | Federal Stimulus (IRS) | Colorado TABOR Refund |
|---|---|---|
| Source | U.S. Federal Government (IRS) | Colorado State Government |
| Purpose | Nationwide economic relief (e.g., COVID-19 aid) | Refund of state revenue surplus |
| Eligibility | Based on federal income and dependents | Colorado residents who filed taxes |
| Last Issued | 2021 (American Rescue Plan) | 2025 |
In short, this is not a fourth federal stimulus check. The federal government has not approved or announced any new nationwide economic impact payments as of December 2025.
Why Colorado Issues TABOR Refunds?
The TABOR law limits how much the state government can spend each year, based on inflation and population growth. If revenues exceed that limit, the surplus must be refunded to taxpayers.
Supporters of TABOR say it keeps the government accountable and prevents overspending. Critics, however, argue that the system can restrict funding for public services like education and transportation.
Regardless of political opinion, TABOR remains one of the most distinctive taxpayer protection laws in the country — and for 2025, it’s putting extra money directly back into residents’ pockets.
Steps to Make Sure You Receive $1130 Stimulus Checks
Follow these steps to ensure you don’t miss your refund:
- File Your 2024 State Taxes. Even if you earned very little income, filing ensures eligibility.
- Select Direct Deposit. This is the fastest and safest method. Paper checks take longer.
- Update Your Address. If you’ve moved since filing, update your address with the Colorado Department of Revenue or USPS.
- Avoid Duplicate Filings. Submitting multiple returns or amendments can delay processing.
- Check Refund Status Weekly. Use the refund tracker to monitor progress and ensure your payment isn’t delayed.
Scam Alerts and How to Stay Safe
Whenever refund season hits, scammers try to take advantage of people waiting for their money. Stay alert for these common scams:
- Fake emails or texts claiming to be from the IRS or Colorado Department of Revenue.
- Phone calls asking for personal or banking details to “release your refund.”
- Websites mimicking .gov pages that ask for Social Security Numbers.
Always verify the source of any message and never share sensitive information unless you’re on an official government site (ending in “.gov”).
Other States Offering Refunds or Rebates
Colorado isn’t the only state sharing surplus revenue. Several others have rolled out rebate programs over the past few years:
| State | Program Name | Average Refund | Year of Last Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Permanent Fund Dividend | $1,312 | 2025 |
| Maine | Energy Relief Rebate | $850 | 2024 |
| California | Middle-Class Tax Refund | $700 | 2023 |
| New Mexico | Resident Tax Rebates | $500 | 2024 |
| Idaho | Income Tax Rebates | $300 | 2024 |
Many of these programs are temporary, but they show that states across the U.S. are increasingly returning surplus revenue to taxpayers.
Expert Insights on State-Level Refunds
Economists often view programs like Colorado’s TABOR as an experiment in fiscal restraint. By limiting spending and refunding surplus revenue, the state avoids long-term budget deficits while maintaining transparency.
According to the Tax Foundation, TABOR has kept Colorado’s tax rates among the most stable in the nation. However, some experts argue that during economic downturns, TABOR makes it harder for the state to fund essential programs.
In 2025, though, the strong economy and population growth helped Colorado outperform projections, resulting in one of the largest refunds ever.
How to Use Your Refund Wisely?
For many residents, a $1,130 check can make a big difference — especially around the holidays. But instead of spending it all at once, consider these smart options:
- Pay Down Debt: Credit card debt has reached record highs; paying it off saves interest.
- Start an Emergency Fund: Having even $500 saved can prevent future financial stress.
- Invest in Education or Retirement: Contribute to a 529 College Plan or Roth IRA.
- Cover Essential Bills: Use the money for heating, car repairs, or medical expenses.
- Support Local Businesses: Spending locally helps strengthen your community’s economy.
Personal finance experts like Suze Orman often stress using refunds strategically, saying, “Every dollar you save or invest moves you closer to financial independence.”
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Why This Matters for Everyone?
Even if you don’t live in Colorado, this story offers valuable lessons in how state tax systems work. As inflation and cost of living rise, understanding rebates, credits, and refunds can help households make the most of their tax returns. Programs like TABOR remind us that fiscal responsibility and transparency can benefit both taxpayers and state economies. Whether through refunds, tax credits, or public programs, knowing where your tax dollars go — and when they come back — is key to good financial citizenship.
