By: Joshua Dieker, District Representative 

With so many people facing a tough financial situation, no one should miss out on an opportunity to reap the benefits of this year’s economic stimulus payments. The Internal Revenue Service has identified about 20 million low-income senior citizens, disabled veterans and others with disabilities who did not have to file a 2007 tax return. Many people from these groups may miss out on this opportunity to claim their stimulus payments.

Anyone who made at least $3,000 in income during 2007 is eligible for a stimulus payment. Qualifying income includes social security and disability benefits, nontaxable combat pay, some railroad retirement and veteran’s benefits, and, of course, earned income. Anyone who is eligible for the stimulus payment, but who is not normally required to file an annual tax return, must file with the IRS by October 15 in order to receive the payment. The only required form is the 1040-A, which is relatively straightforward and easy to fill out.

If you find that you are eligible, you can find the form on the IRS website, which can be printed off and mailed in. Also on the IRS website is an online calculator to help estimate your payment, which will be a minimum of $300. Many are actually eligible for $600 or $1,200 for a married couple. There is just no reason to let the deadline pass without claiming your share of the stimulus package, especially given the uncertainty in the economy today.

If you have any trouble using the IRS website to determine your eligibility for a stimulus payment, or if you have any other questions relating to the economic stimulus checks, the Taxpayer Advocate Service can offer advice and assistance. They can be reached at (316) 352-7506. And as always, we encourage you to contact our office with your questions or concerns.