Could a $400 rebate be on the way? Here’s who qualifies—and how to claim it before time runs out

If you’ve been watching your mailbox or checking your bank account lately, there might be a pleasant surprise waiting for you.

A new fall rebate program is putting up to $400 back in people’s pockets—just in time for rising seasonal costs and early holiday planning.

Whether you're managing bills or treating yourself to a little extra, this cash boost could be a welcome relief.


But not everyone qualifies, and the deadline to claim it is coming up faster than you might expect.

Here’s what you need to know about who’s eligible, how it works, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.


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A calm, comfortable evening routine can help turn restless nights into restful sleep. Image Source: Pexels / Photo By: Kaboompics.com.


Why is Virginia sending out rebates?

Thanks to what state officials describe as “strong fiscal management,” Virginia has accumulated over $10 billion in surplus revenue across the past four years.

Rather than hold onto the funds, state leaders opted to return a portion of the surplus to taxpayers.

"It’s your money, not the government’s," said Governor Glenn Youngkin. Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings added that it's a shared responsibility to return the surplus to Virginians while continuing to fund key priorities.

How much could you receive?

It depends on your tax filing status:

  • Single filers: $200
  • Joint filers: $400

If you filed a 2024 Virginia state tax return as an individual, you’re eligible for $200.

If you filed jointly with a spouse, the rebate doubles to $400.


Also read: Are rebate checks making a comeback? President Trump signals support for new payouts

When will payments arrive?


Payments began rolling out on October 15, and most eligible residents should receive their rebate by the end of the month.

If you received your state tax refund by direct deposit earlier this year, your rebate should arrive the same way.

Otherwise, you’ll get a paper check in the mail.

Still haven’t filed your taxes?

There’s still time—but not much.

You must file your 2024 Virginia state taxes by November 3, 2025 to qualify.

If you file after that date, you’ll miss out on the rebate entirely.


Also read: Could you really get a $2,000 check from Trump's tariff windfall?

Who is eligible—and who isn’t?

Not every Virginian will qualify. Here are the main rules:

  • You must have owed Virginia state income tax for the 2024 tax year.
  • You must file your 2024 taxes by November 3, 2025.
  • If you have unpaid debts to Virginia Tax or another state or local agency, your rebate will be used to cover that debt first. If your debt is less than the rebate, you’ll receive the difference. If your debt is more, you’ll get a letter explaining the situation.

Income thresholds that affect eligibility

If your adjusted gross income was below $11,950 as a single filer, or $23,900 as a joint filer, you likely weren’t required to file state taxes—meaning you won’t receive the rebate.

How to check your eligibility

Not sure if you qualify? Virginia Tax has launched an online tool that allows residents to check their eligibility status quickly and easily.

It’s worth taking a moment to confirm before assuming you’re excluded.


Source: YouTube / @WUSA9news


Also read: Are you missing out on $1,000 yearly property tax rebates? Find out if you qualify for this 5-year windfall!

Rebate programs in other states

Virginia isn’t the only state issuing payments this fall.

Several others are offering their own rebate or refund programs:

  • New York: Over 8 million residents are getting inflation relief rebates of up to $400.
  • Pennsylvania: Renters and homeowners within specific income ranges may qualify for rebates ranging from $380 to $1,000. The deadline to apply is December 31, 2025.
  • Colorado: Refunds range from $177 to $1,130 depending on income and filing status.
  • Montana: Property tax rebates of up to $400 are being sent to eligible residents.

If you have friends or family in these states, it’s worth sharing the news—they may be eligible for rebates of their own.

Also read: Could tariff checks really land in your mailbox? Here's what to know about the $1,000–$2,000 proposal

What should you do now?

Here’s a quick checklist:

  • Check your bank account or mailbox if you’ve already filed—your rebate may be on the way.
  • If you haven’t filed, do so by November 3, 2025 to secure your rebate.
  • If you owe state or local debts, know that your rebate may be used to cover those first.
  • Still unsure? Use the online eligibility checker or contact Virginia Tax for assistance.

As rebate payments continue rolling out, it’s a good reminder to stay informed about what programs you may qualify for—and to file on time.

A few hundred dollars can make a real difference, especially as the holidays approach.

Whether you use it for everyday needs or something special, this rebate is a welcome boost worth keeping an eye on.


Source: YouTube / 10 Tampa Bay


Read next:

Key Takeaways
  • Virginia is distributing fall rebates of $200 for individual filers and $400 for joint filers who owed state income tax for 2024.
  • Payments began on October 15 and will continue through the end of the month, sent by direct deposit or check depending on your previous refund method.
  • To qualify, taxpayers must file their 2024 Virginia returns by November 3, 2025, and must not have had zero tax liability.
  • Several other states—including New York, Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Montana—are also offering fall rebates or refunds to eligible residents.

Have you received your rebate yet? Are you planning to use it for holiday shopping, bills, or something else? Maybe you’re in one of the other states offering similar rebates and have a story to share. We’d love to hear from you.

Feel free to drop a comment and let us know how this extra fall cash is helping—or if you have questions about navigating the process.
 

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News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

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The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
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