If you’ve ever dreamed of opening your mailbox (or checking your bank account) and finding a surprise check from the government—no strings attached—this might just be your lucky year.

For millions of residents, that dream is about to become reality, thanks to a generous state surplus refund initiative that’s already put smiles on nearly three million faces.

And the best part? There’s no paperwork, no frantic online forms, and no waiting in line at the DMV. If you qualify, the money is coming straight to you.


Let’s set the scene: Georgia, like many states, found itself with a hefty budget surplus—$16 billion, to be exact.

Rather than letting that money gather dust, state officials decided to give back to the people who helped create it: hardworking taxpayers.

Governor Brian Kemp summed it up perfectly, saying, “Inflation may have fallen, but high prices are still here and weighing down hardworking Georgians.”

In other words, while the headlines might say inflation is cooling, the reality at the grocery store and gas pump tells a different story.

So, Georgia is putting $1 billion of that surplus directly into the hands of its residents, hoping to ease the sting of rising costs and give families a little breathing room.


How much can you get, and who qualifies?

Here’s the breakdown:

• Individuals: Up to $250
• Heads of Household: Up to $375 (that’s for single or unmarried folks who maintain a home for a child, parent, or close relative)
• Married Couples Filing Jointly: Up to $500

To qualify, you need to have:

• Been a Georgia resident for the 2023 tax year
• Filed your 2023 and 2024 state income tax returns on time

That’s it! No application, no hoops to jump through. If you’re eligible, the money will be deposited automatically.

Direct deposits will show up with the code GASTTAXRFD, and if you get a paper check, look for “state surplus refund check” in the mail.


Also read: This little-known program is mailing $500 surprise checks—here are the 2 requirements you must meet

If you haven’t received your refund yet, don’t worry—more rounds are coming in August and September. So keep an eye on your bank account or mailbox.

With nearly three million payments already out the door, the state is moving fast to get this money into your hands.

The response from Georgians has been overwhelmingly positive. Steven Williams of Hinesville told WTOC-TV, “Amazing, amazing… good to know someone is looking out for us.”

And who can blame him? In a world where it often feels like the little guy gets overlooked, a surprise check is a welcome change of pace.


Also read: Thousands to get $1,702 in extra income—but only if they meet these rules

What about other states?

Georgia isn’t alone in offering financial relief. Alaska, for example, has its famous Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD), which shares the state’s oil wealth with residents.

In 2024, eligible Alaskans will receive a whopping $1,702—$1,440 from the fund, plus a $262 energy relief bonus.

The next round of payments goes out August 21, and about 60,000 Alaskans benefit each year. The main requirement? You have to be a resident for the full calendar year.

Other states occasionally offer similar programs, especially when they find themselves with budget surpluses or want to help residents weather tough economic times.

It’s always worth keeping an eye on your state’s Department of Revenue website or signing up for their newsletters.

Read next: Some Americans could see another round of payments soon—but there’s a catch
Have you received your check already? How are you planning to use your refund—paying bills, treating yourself, or maybe helping out a loved one? Do you think more states should follow Georgia’s lead and return surplus funds to taxpayers?