Willowbrook, IL – U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL-13) today reminded seniors that their Social Security income may qualify them for an economic stimulus rebate check, but only if they contact the IRS by next Wednesday, October 15th. An estimated 4.3 million American disabled veterans and social security recipients are qualified for a stimulus payment but have yet to sign up.
“For people who file taxes normally, the rebates have been automatic,” said Biggert. “But Social Security recipients who don’t usually file taxes with the IRS need to send in a special form to receive their $300 check, and the last day to do so is coming up fast.”
In order to boost consumer activity, Congress approved a one-time economic stimulus tax rebate of $300 to $600 for individuals and $600 to $1,200 for couples, depending on income. Families with dependant children receive an additional $300 per child. To qualify, an individual must report a minimum income of $3,000 to the IRS in 2007. Rebates are phased out for those earning over $75,000 ($150,000 for couples). Although Veterans’ and Social Security benefits aren’t taxed, they still count toward the $3,000 minimum income eligibility requirement to receive a rebate check.
“The rebate is based on 2007 tax returns, so those who don’t normally file taxes will want report their Social Security benefits to the IRS with a simple 1040A form,” said Biggert. “It’s easy to do, and it absolutely will not affect your benefits in any way. It just lets the IRS know that you’re entitled to receive a rebate check in the mail.”
Social Security recipients wishing to file with the IRS should:
1. Download the 1040A form from www.irs.gov;
2. Write the words “Stimulus Payment” across the top of a 1040A form;
3. Fill out the label section with your name, address, and social security number;
4. Check the appropriate box next to your filing status -- married, single, etc.;
5. Note any exceptions that apply to you, including dependant children;
6. In box 14a, fill out your actual or estimated Social Security income for 2007;
7. If you want your rebate check to be a direct deposit, fill out lines 44 b, c, and d;
8. Sign, date, and mail the form to:
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service Center
Kansas City, MO 64999-0099
“We want all our eligible seniors to receive their checks, so don’t hesitate to have your neighbor or loved one call my office for personal assistance or to get a copy of the form,” said Biggert. “The number for my Willowbrook office is 630-655-2052.”
Additional information may be found at www.irs.gov or by calling the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program at 1-800-906-9887.
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