Question about tax rebate?

Wait a minute-I'm confused. HOW does this affect next year's tax return? Wouldn't it just be that, say, if you get a $1200 rebate this year, you'll have to claim it as income next year, right? But it doesn't actually get DEDUCTED from next years refund, does it?

Let's say, hypothetically, I get a $1000 tax refund this year, AND a $1200 rebate. Then next year, I'll claim the $1200 rebate as income (I guess?). But let's say I should get a $1000 refund again next year. I don't have to take the $1200 that I got this year off of my refund for next year and actually OWE money, do I?!!!