Did you miss the October 15, 2008 filing date? You can still claim your
one-time stimulus payment by filing a 2008 tax return in early 2009. This
payment is now referred to as the "recovery rebate credit." Four million
low-income seniors, veterans and people getting disability benefits qualify,
but have not claimed their credits. Even if you don't normally file a
tax return, you can claim this credit.
If earned more than $3,000 in 2007 (including Social Security Disability,
Veterans Compensation, and Railroad Retirement benefits) and fall into
one of the following categories, you may be eligible:
Qualified in 2008 but did not file a 2007 tax return by the October
2008 deadline, or
Received a stimulus payment in 2008, based on your 2007 circumstances,
but due to changed circumstances in 2008 would now be eligible for a
larger amount. For example, a person who received the minimum $300 stimulus
payment in 2008, but then gave birth to a child in 2008 would now qualify
for an additional $300 credit; or
Did not qualify for a stimulus payment in 2008, but now meet the requirements
based on your 2008 income; or
Filed a 2007 tax return, but did not receive an stimulus payment or
a clear explanation of why.
Look for the line one your 2008 tax return where you can indicate that you did
not receive your stimulus payment or "recovery rebate credit" to claim your
payment. Go
here to find out more from the IRS.
The 2009 Stimulus Payment
Unlike last year's stimulus, to get this new payment, you do not
have to file a tax return. Also, unlike the 2008 rebate, SSI recipients
will get this payment. In fact, it will specifically go to recipients
of SSI, retirees and disabled individuals. You should be eligible to receive
the $250 payment if you fall into one of the following categories:
Currently receive Supplemental Security Income or Social Security
Benefits. For more information and updates, visit the Social
Security Administration web page, or AARP.
Were eligible to receive Railroad Retirement benefits in November
2008, December 2008, or January 2009. For more information see the Railroad
Retirement Board web page.
Are a disabled veteran receiving compensation from the Department
of Veteran's Affairs.
Stimulus checks will be mailed in May or June 2009. If you are eligible,
you don't have to do anything to get this payment, it should arrive in the
same way your regular benefits do.
Beware of scammers! Don't fall for any scams that charge you money,
or ask for personal information, on the promise that you'll be helped.
Note: According to the AARP story linked above: "Federal and state retirees
who don't receive Social Security benefits also will qualify to receive
the payment but may have to file 2009 tax returns to receive it."
