DAN BOONE
IRS tax specialist
 

Tax Tips
By Dan Boone

IPS Features


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IPS Features Staff

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2008 economic stimulus payments – Fast Facts

-To get a payment, most taxpayers need do nothing but file their 2007 tax return as usual.

-The IRS will calculate the payments based on information from your 2007 tax return and, if you qualify, send you a payment.

-Most filers who chose direct deposit on their 2007 tax returns will have their stimulus payments delivered the same way.

-Payments will begin in May and will go to more than 130 million taxpayers.

-Individuals whose 2007 adjusted gross income exceeded $75,000 ($150,000 for married couples filing jointly) may get a reduced payment or no payment at all.

-The payments will be a maximum of $600 for eligible individuals, $1,200 for married couples filing jointly. Add $300 for each qualifying child. 

-People who have no tax liability but have at least $3,000 income for 2007 from earned income, Social Security benefits, certain Railroad Retirement or certain veterans’ benefits may qualify for a payment but MUST file a 2007 tax return to get one.

-Individuals who have no tax liability but qualify for a payment will each get $300 – but only if they file a 2007 tax return.

-The payments will not affect your 2007 or 2008 regular tax refund nor will they have to be paid back.  They are not subject to federal tax.

-Taxpayers must have valid Social Security numbers to qualify for a payment.

-The IRS will issue two informational notices about the payments, but taxpayers should be wary of scams such as phone calls or e-mails from IRS imposters soliciting personal information and promising a “rebate” or other type of tax payment. The ONLY form you need to fill out to get a stimulus payment is your 2007 federal tax return.

-Check www.irs.gov for details and updates.

 



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