March 3, 2008
Washington, D.C.—Congressman Christopher P. Carney has issued the following statement and instructions to explain how people can receive their economic stimulus payment:
“Even if you do not normally file a tax return, you may still be entitled to an economic stimulus payment. To receive the stimulus package payment, you must file a 2007 IRS Form 1040 or Form 1040A, reporting at least $3,000 in qualifying income on the form. SSA benefits are considered qualifying income to receive a stimulus payment. This is very important for our seniors to know: you must fill out the IRS Form 1040 or 1040A to receive the payment. These forms are located on our website, local public library, or please call our office toll free (866 846-8124) and we will mail them to you.
“Our office has received a number of phone calls from people who are unsure if their benefits qualify as income with regard to the stimulus package. YES—your benefits count as income, including Social Security, railroad retirement, and benefits paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not.
“The stimulus payment is not taxable next year, nor will this affect the amount of SSA benefits you receive in the future. The IRS will begin mailing checks in May. Deadline to file the 1040 or 1040A is April 15th. My office is here to help, if anyone has additional questions, please contact Joe Fabricatore at my office at (570) 585-9988.”
In addition, questions can be directed to Pennsylvania VITA at 1-800-829-1040.
The United Neighborhood Center's has scheduled four dates for seniors who need help with their taxes in order to get the stimulus rebate:
1. Southside Senior Community Center, Monday, March 10, 1:30pm to 4:30pm - 425 Alder St
2. Westside Senior Community Center, Tuesday, March 18, 1:30pm to 4:30pm - 1004 Jackson St
3. Carbondale Senior Community Center, Tuesday, March 25, 1:30pm to 4:30pm - 66 N. Church St
4. Mid Valley Senior Community Center, Tuesday, April 1, 2:00pm to 4:30pm- 632 Fourth Ave Jessup (Fire Dept/Hose Company Building)
Appointments can be scheduled by call Lisa Durkin at United Neighborhood Centers 343-8835 ext 108.
Click here, to download the IRS Form 1040.
Click here, to download the IRS Form 1040A.
