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Press Release

For Immediate Release
February 29, 2008
Contact: Sean C. Bonyun
(202) 225-3761

Upton Works to Ensure Seniors Receive Stimulus Checks
Seniors on a limited income who normally do not file a tax return must fill out the two page 1040A form to receive their check from the IRS

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) is reaching out to seniors throughout southwest Michigan to ensure those on a limited income know what steps they must follow to receive their IRS payment resulting from the recently passed economic stimulus package.  Upton strongly supported the package to provide a helping hand to those folks who need it most, Michigan’s working families, seniors and disabled veterans.  It is important to note that individuals who already file a federal tax return do not need to take any further steps to receive their rebate – only those folks who normally do not file a tax return must fill out the two page 1040A form to receive their check from the IRS.  Upton has put together a one-page “how-to” guide and a one-page fraud alert which he is distributing along with copies of the 1040A forms to local seniors. 

“I want to ensure that every senior who is eligible for a check from the IRS receives their money,” said Upton.  “For those folks on a limited income and who normally don’t file a tax return, all they will need to do is follow a few simple steps in filling out the two-page 1040A IRS form.  The process is easy, and a check of $300 will soon be on its way to provide an extra helping hand.  Please check with your loved ones, a friend or neighbor to ensure that everyone who is eligible receives their check from the IRS.”

In order to qualify for a tax rebate, individuals must file a tax form for 2007. The steps are simple for those folks, particularly seniors on Social Security, who do not file federal taxes to get their checks:

• Write the words “Stimulus Payment” across the top of a 1040A form.
• On the 1040A form, fill out the label section with your name, address, and social security number.
• In box 14a, fill out your actual or estimated Social Security income for 2007.
• If you want your rebate check to be a direct deposit, fill out lines 44 b, c, and d.
• Sign the return and mail to:

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Kansas City, MO  64999-0015

There are only two manners in which the IRS will disburse the rebate: via direct deposit or check in the mail.  Individuals will determine for themselves on the 1040A form on how they will receive their money from the IRS.  The IRS strongly recommends that seniors file no later than April 15, 2008; however, the final deadline for filing is October 15, 2008.

“Seniors who usually don’t file an income tax statement with the IRS should not shy away from sending a 1040A form in to the IRS to get their rebate check – it’s easy and important that they do,” said Lynn Kellogg, Executive Director of the Area Agency on Aging.  “There’s no ‘trick’ to this money - it will simply make life a little easier.”

There have been recent reports of fraud as scam artists have been posing as IRS agents on the phone and via e-mail seeking individual’s personal bank account information.   Upton wants everyone to be aware of the potential for fraud.

“It is critical to keep in mind that no one from the IRS will be calling or e-mailing them for information.  The only way to receive your money is by filing the 1040A or other applicable tax form.  Folks should not give out any personal or financial information over the phone or e-mail if someone inquires about their IRS check.  By exercising a little caution, individuals can protect themselves from scams and fraud,” concluded Upton.

Upton has established a virtual “Senior Help Center” on his website, http://www.house.gov/upton with a one page “how-to” guide, a fraud alert and the 1040A form.  Additional information may be obtained through the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov or by contacting the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program at 1-800-906-9887.  Folks may also contact Upton’s district offices in Kalamazoo (269-385-0039) and the Twin Cities (269-982-1986) for further assistance.

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