U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) reminds local seniors and disabled veterans in the 31st District of Texas that they must file a 2007 tax return in order to receive the recently enacted economic stimulus tax rebate.

“This stimulus package will give our economy the quick jolt it needs by putting money directly back into the hands of the American people,” Rep Carter said.  “It will also help ensure that America’s working families, seniors and veterans have additional financial assistance available to help them during this time of slow economic progress.”

This spring, more than 130 million Americans will receive a tax rebate from the federal government as result of the recently enacted economic stimulus bill.  According to the new law, an individual or family with at least $3,000 in income, including Social Security and veteran disability benefits, or that pays at least $1 in income tax, will receive a rebate check of at least $300.

In recent weeks, many seniors and veterans that do not regularly file income taxes have contacted Carter’s office seeking guidance and assistance on how to properly obtain their tax rebate.  Carter reminds those residents, including qualified seniors and disabled veterans that would not typically file tax forms with the IRS, they must file a 2007 tax return in order to receive their rebate check.

“The fastest way to keep our economy on the rising slope is to allow Americans to keep more of their hard-earned money,” Carter continued.  “It is important for local seniors and veterans to file a tax return so they can count on the extra cash due to them this spring.”

According to the IRS, individuals who receive Social Security, certain veterans’ benefits and certain Railroad Retirement benefits may qualify for economic stimulus payments this year.

• Those who have already filed a 2007 return reflecting qualifying income of $3,000 or more do not have any additional filing requirements and do not need to do anything more to receive their payments.
• Those who have already filed a 2007 return showing less than $3,000 in qualifying income and did not list their Social Security, Railroad Retirement or certain veterans benefits should file a Form 1040X to amend a tax return in order to qualify for stimulus payment.
• Those who are not required to file a 2007 return but whose total qualifying income including Social Security, certain Railroad Retirement and certain veterans’ benefits would equal or exceed $3,000 should file a return reporting these benefits on Line 14a of Form 1040A or Line 20a of Form 1040 to establish their eligibility. 

Free Tax Help is available to help low-and moderate-income taxpayers and elderly taxpayers.  The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides help to these individuals.  Call 1-800-906-9877 to locate the nearest VITA site.

The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program provides free tax help to people age 60 and older. As part of the IRS-sponsored TCE Program, AARP offers the Tax-Aide counseling program at more than 7,000 sites nationwide during the filing season. To find an AARP Tax Aide site call 1-888-227-7669 or visit the AARP Web site.

Local residents can expect a tax return as early as May.  Please contact Carter’s Round Rock office at (512)-246-1600 or Temple office at (254) 933-1392 for questions or more information.