Getting your TABOR refund on TurboTax can seem a little tricky, especially if you're not entirely familiar with the specific steps. But don't worry, you're in the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what the TABOR refund is to claiming it successfully on your TurboTax return.
Understanding the TABOR Refund: A Quick Primer
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's quickly clarify what the TABOR refund is. TABOR stands for the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights, a constitutional amendment in Colorado that limits the amount of revenue the state can retain. If the state collects more revenue than allowed under the TABOR limit, it is legally required to refund the excess back to taxpayers. This refund often comes in the form of a sales tax refund or other mechanisms.
It's important to note: The TABOR refund is a Colorado-specific refund, and its eligibility and amount can vary year to year based on state revenue. Always refer to the Colorado Department of Revenue for the most up-to-date and official information.
Now, let's get down to business!
Step-by-Step Guide: Getting Your TABOR Refund on TurboTax
Step 1: Are You Eligible? Let's Find Out Together!
The very first thing we need to do is determine if you're even eligible for the TABOR refund. Don't skip this crucial step!
Sub-heading: Basic Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the TABOR refund in Colorado, you generally need to meet the following criteria for the tax year in question:
Be 18 years or older by January 1st of the tax year.
Be a full-year Colorado resident for the entire tax year.
File a Colorado state income tax return (Form DR 0104) or a Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate (PTC) application.
Self-reflection moment: Do you meet these three core requirements? If yes, fantastic! Let's move on. If not, unfortunately, you might not be eligible for the TABOR refund for this tax year.
Sub-heading: Income-Based Eligibility (Important Changes to Note!)
Historically, TABOR refund amounts were often a flat rate for all eligible filers. However, recent changes have sometimes introduced income-tiered refunds. For example, for the 2024 tax year (refunded in 2025), Colorado has issued flat-rate refunds (e.g., $800 for single filers, $1,600 for joint filers). Always double-check the Colorado Department of Revenue website for the specific year you are filing for, as the rules and amounts can change.
Step 2: Accessing Your Colorado State Return in TurboTax
Now that you've confirmed your eligibility, it's time to navigate TurboTax.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Online Users
Sign in to your TurboTax Online account.
From your "Tax Home" screen, look for the section related to your state taxes. You might see a dropdown menu next to "State Taxes" or a direct option to "Start," "Continue," "Review/Edit," or "Pick up where you left off" for your Colorado return. Select the appropriate option to open your Colorado state return.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Desktop/CD Users
Open your tax return in the TurboTax Desktop software.
Navigate to the "State Taxes" section. You'll typically find this as a distinct tab or a menu option. Select your Colorado state return to begin or continue the interview process.
Step 3: Finding the TABOR Refund Questions (The Key Moment!)
This is where you'll actively engage with TurboTax to claim your refund.
Sub-heading: Navigating the Colorado State Interview
As you proceed through the Colorado state interview questions, keep an eye out for screens related to credits and refunds. TurboTax is designed to guide you.
Continue through the state screens until you reach a section discussing Colorado credits and taxes.
Look for a screen titled something like:
"Qualifying for the Colorado Sales Tax Refund"
"Colorado State Sales Tax Refund"
"TABOR Refund Qualification"
Sub-heading: Answering the Crucial Questions
On these screens, TurboTax will ask you specific questions to determine your eligibility for the TABOR refund. These questions typically include:
Residency: A question confirming if you were a full-year resident of Colorado for the entire tax year. Answer "Yes" if you meet this.
Incarceration: A question about whether you were incarcerated in Colorado for 180 days or more during the tax year. You should typically answer "No" here unless this applies to you, as incarceration can affect eligibility.
Age: TurboTax will likely infer your age from your personal information, but it's crucial to ensure it aligns with the "18 or older by January 1st" rule.
Pay close attention to these questions! Your answers directly impact whether the TABOR refund is applied to your return. If you answer these questions correctly and meet the criteria, TurboTax should automatically calculate and include the TABOR refund amount on your Colorado state return.
Step 4: Verifying the TABOR Refund on Your Return
Once you've answered the questions, it's a good practice to confirm that the TABOR refund has been correctly applied.
Sub-heading: Reviewing Your Colorado Return Summary
After completing the state interview, TurboTax will usually provide a summary of your Colorado state return.
Look for a line item that indicates a "Colorado Sales Tax Refund," "TABOR Refund," or a "Refundable Credit" on your state tax forms. In many cases, it will appear on Line 34 or 35 of the Colorado Form 104 (Individual Income Tax Return).
Sub-heading: Checking the Refund Meter
If you're using TurboTax Online, you might see your overall refund amount (or amount due) adjust as you go through the state interview. Observe this meter to see if it increases after you answer the TABOR questions affirmatively.
Step 5: Filing Your Colorado State Return
Once you're satisfied that your TABOR refund is included, proceed to file your return.
Sub-heading: E-filing is Recommended
E-filing your state return through TurboTax is generally the fastest and most secure way to submit it. Follow the prompts to e-file your Colorado state return after your federal return (if you're filing both).
Sub-heading: What if You Already Filed? Amending Your Return!
If you've already filed your Colorado state return and realized you missed claiming the TABOR refund, you may need to amend your state return.
TurboTax provides a feature to amend returns. Look for an option like "Amend (change) [Year] return" in your TurboTax account.
When amending, you'll likely be asked for the reason for amending. Enter "TO CLAIM THE TABOR STATE SALES TAX REFUND" or a similar clear explanation.
Be cautious when amending. Ensure you follow TurboTax's instructions carefully to avoid errors. You typically only need to amend your state return, not your federal, as the TABOR refund is a state-level issue.
Step 6: Tracking Your Colorado TABOR Refund
After filing, patience is key, but you can also check the status.
Sub-heading: Using the Colorado Department of Revenue Website
The most reliable way to check the status of your Colorado state refund, including your TABOR portion, is directly through the Colorado Department of Revenue's "Where's My Refund" tool.
You'll typically need your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), your filing status, and the exact refund amount from your Colorado return.
Access the Colorado Department of Revenue's website and look for their refund status checker.
Sub-heading: TurboTax E-file Status
While TurboTax can confirm if your return was accepted by the state, it doesn't track the processing of your refund. Use the state's official tool for that.
Sub-heading: Refund Timelines
E-filed returns: Generally, expect your refund within 3-5 weeks.
Paper-filed returns: These can take significantly longer, often up to 3 months.
Note: The state may experience delays during peak tax season.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, specifically focusing on "How to" with quick answers, related to the TABOR refund and TurboTax:
How to check my TABOR refund status after filing with TurboTax?
To check your TABOR refund status, visit the Colorado Department of Revenue's "Where's My Refund" tool online. You'll need your SSN/ITIN, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your Colorado tax return.
How to ensure TurboTax calculates the TABOR refund correctly?
Ensure you accurately answer the Colorado state interview questions about residency, age, and incarceration status. If you meet the criteria, TurboTax should automatically include the refund. Review your state return summary (e.g., Form 104, Line 34/35) to confirm.
How to amend my Colorado return on TurboTax if I missed the TABOR refund?
Log in to TurboTax, go to "Your tax returns & documents," and select "Amend (change) [Year] return." Follow the prompts, specifically entering "TO CLAIM THE TABOR STATE SALES TAX REFUND" as the reason for amendment.
How to find the specific TABOR refund amount on my TurboTax return?
The TABOR refund amount will typically be included as a refundable credit on your Colorado Form 104, often on Line 34 or 35. You can view your state forms within TurboTax before filing (or after if you paid for the online version).
How to contact TurboTax customer support for TABOR refund issues?
For specific issues with TurboTax's calculation or filing process regarding your TABOR refund, visit the TurboTax Support website and search for "Colorado TABOR refund" or a similar phrase. They may provide a specific phone number or chat option for state tax issues.
How to get the TABOR refund if I don't have a Social Security Number (SSN)?
Colorado residents without an SSN can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) when filing their state taxes to receive the TABOR refund, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.
How to know the exact TABOR refund amount for the current tax year?
The Colorado Department of Revenue announces the official TABOR refund amounts each year. Check their official website or reliable tax news sources for the most current figures, as these can vary based on state revenue.
How to file for the TABOR refund if I don't owe state taxes?
You must still file a Colorado state income tax return (Form DR 0104) even if you don't owe taxes, or apply for the Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate (PTC) program, to be eligible for and receive the TABOR refund.
How to receive my TABOR refund as a direct deposit?
When completing your Colorado state return in TurboTax, you will be given the option to select direct deposit and provide your bank account information. Ensure this information is accurate for a smooth deposit.
How to avoid common issues when claiming the TABOR refund on TurboTax?
Always ensure you're a full-year Colorado resident and accurately answer the age and incarceration questions within the TurboTax state interview. Double-check your entries before filing, and if in doubt, consult the Colorado Department of Revenue's guidelines directly.