The deadline to file for a stimulus payment is October 15, 2008.

As part of the government’s economic stimulus package supported by Senator Bayh, many Hoosiers are eligible to receive a payment check in 2008. According to the IRS, millions of disabled veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, and others who qualify for a stimulus payment have not yet filed a tax return this year. Therefore, these Americans have not received their payment of $300 for an individual or $600 for married couples.

The one-time payment is intended to stimulate the overall economy and help households in need during these tough economic times. Even if you do not make enough money to normally file a tax return, you must file a tax return to receive your stimulus rebate. The deadline to file and claim your check is October 15 (not April 15).

So even if you have not yet filed a tax return, it is not too late to claim your economic stimulus payment or to notify a neighbor or a loved one living on a fixed income of their eligibility.

You can qualify for a payment: If you had $3,000 or more in income in 2007 from Social Security benefits; Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI); veterans disability benefits; Railroad Retirement benefits; earnings from work; OR a combination of any of these benefits and pay.

How to get your payment: File a tax form (Form 1040A) with the IRS by October 15. The IRS may already have sent you the Form 1040A and special instructions.

You MUST file the form even if you do not usually file taxes.

The payment should not affect other benefits you may get, like SSI, Food Stamps or Medicaid.

More information:

IRS website or call the IRS at: 1-866-234-2942

AARP Tax-Aide website

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