There are only a couple of days left until Christmas, and it seems like there’s a hole in our wallets. It may be a time to think about family and others, but at the same time, we’ve been forced to think about consumerism, buying expensive gifts, and spending a fortune on Christmas dinners. That’s why many people look up to the sky and fantasize about a check that will get them out of a tight spot this Christmas. Luckily for residents in several states in the United States, various agencies and even the government are sending out checks for one reason or another.
This does not mean that we will receive free money, but we may receive a dividend if we live in Alaska, a late tax refund, or perhaps assistance with central heating. That is why we are providing you with the complete list of payments being made this December 2025… for one reason or another.
Alaska
The Permanent Fund Dividend will send a check for $1,000 to every eligible Alaska resident, regardless of age. It was sent on December 18, and unlike other states, this check comes from the proceeds of oil sales in the state, which are invested in the Permanent Fund. The annual profits from these investments are distributed annually among residents.
If you have been living in Alaska for a while and want to know more about this, read here.
Oregon
It has a law that is unique in the nation: economists working for the state government must make a revenue forecast every two years. If actual revenues exceed that forecast by 2% or more, the state is legally required to return all of the excess to taxpayers (not just the 2%). This ensures that Oregon does not collect excess revenue.
This year there has been a massive surplus of $1.4 billion, so the average refund will be around $1,000 per middle-class family. However, this amount depends strictly on how much tax you paid.
Colorado
Colorado does something similar. According to the TABOR amendment to the state constitution, there is a limit on the amount of revenue the state can retain and spend. This limit is based on inflation and population growth.
Any amount exceeding this limit must be returned to taxpayers. Although these refund payments are usually made in the spring and summer, December is the date when the last refunds are issued to late filers who requested an extension to file their taxes until mid-October. The state of Colorado processes these final returns and issues the corresponding checks before the end of the fiscal year.
Minnesota
Minnesota has the One-Time Tax Rebate Payments: a single taxpayer can receive $260, married couples $520, + $260 per dependent (three maximum). Unlike Alaska, this payment has an income limit. Only individuals who earned less than $75,000, or couples who earned less than $150,000 in the 2021/2022 fiscal year, are eligible.
Virginia
Virginia is still refunding taxes from 2025. It is estimated that $200 will be refunded to single individuals and $400 to couples who filed jointly. The state of Virginia began sending these payments at the end of October, so those who filed their taxes right on the deadline will receive their refund in December.
Georgia
Georgia is handing out its Surplus Tax Refund (HB 162). It is estimated that $250 will be sent to single filers, $375 to heads of household, and $500 to married couples filing jointly. This year, the state of Georgia had a $1 billion surplus, so the governor signed legislation to return it.
Pennsylvania
The state of Pennsylvania is refunding rental property taxes. This refund is primarily intended for people aged 65 and over, widows and widowers aged 50 and over, and people with disabilities (provided they are over 18). Recently, the income limit was set at $45,000 per year for both landlords and tenants, which meant that many more people were eligible for this refund.