Colorado residents are receiving a financial boost this fall as the state rolls out $1,130 stimulus checks under the TABOR (Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights) program. These payments are a form of mandatory state tax refund designed to return surplus revenue to taxpayers, helping households manage the rising costs of living, especially as winter approaches.
Here’s a simple guide to understanding the 2025 Colorado stimulus checks, who qualifies, and when to expect your payment.
What Are the $1,130 Stimulus Checks?
The $1,130 payments are part of Colorado’s TABOR refund program, triggered when state revenues exceed legal limits.
- Single taxpayers can receive up to $1,130
- Married couples typically receive double the amount
- Total payout to residents is estimated at around $1.2 billion
These refunds are automatically issued, so eligible residents do not need to file additional paperwork to claim their check.
Why Colorado Is Sending Stimulus Checks
The refund serves multiple purposes:
- Provides households extra cash for groceries, utilities, rent, and healthcare
- Encourages consumer spending, benefiting local businesses
- Builds public trust by returning surplus tax revenue to residents
The TABOR law, first passed in 1992, limits government spending and ensures any extra revenue is returned to taxpayers. While some critics argue it diverts funds from local services like roads and schools, supporters say it empowers citizens to keep their money.
Who Qualifies for the 2025 TABOR Refund
Eligibility requirements are straightforward:
- Must be a Colorado resident for all of 2024
- 18 years or older
- Have a valid SSN or taxpayer ID number
- Cannot be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return
- Must have filed a 2024 state tax return
Over 3 million Coloradans are expected to benefit from the 2025 TABOR refunds.
Payment Timeline for $1,130 Stimulus Checks
The Colorado Department of Revenue has provided the following schedule:
| Step | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Processing | Early October 2025 |
| Direct Deposit | Mid-October 2025 |
| Mailed Checks | October–November 2025 |
| Completion | By November 30, 2025 |
Residents who opted for direct deposit typically receive payments faster, while mailed checks may take a few additional weeks.
Estimated Refund Amounts
Refunds vary depending on filing status and income:
- Single filers: Up to $1,130
- Joint filers: Double, based on combined taxes
- Low-income filers: Minimum guaranteed refund
- High-income filers: Capped to ensure fairness
The larger 2025 payouts reflect strong economic growth, higher tax collections, and population growth, which together pushed state revenue above projections.
FAQs
Q1: Who is eligible for the $1,130 TABOR refund?
A1: Colorado residents 18+ with a valid SSN or TIN who filed 2024 state tax returns.
Q2: How will I receive my payment?
A2: Most residents receive direct deposits; others get mailed checks.
Q3: When will the refunds be distributed?
A3: Direct deposits began mid-October 2025; mailed checks will arrive between October and November.
Q4: Can dependents claim this refund?
A4: No, only independent filers are eligible.
Q5: Why are the 2025 refunds higher than previous years?
A5: Stronger state revenue, population growth, and inflation adjustments increased payout amounts.
Conclusion
The 2025 $1,130 Colorado stimulus checks provide timely financial relief ahead of the winter season, supporting families with everyday expenses. Residents should check their accounts or mailboxes in the coming weeks to ensure they receive their refund. The TABOR program continues to demonstrate Colorado’s commitment to returning surplus tax revenue to its citizens, helping households stay financially secure.