BRIEF 35,000 Stimulus Checks Unclaimed

Aug. 21, 2008 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- An estimated 35,000 New Mexicans haven't claimed their economic stimulus checks, according to a news release from Sen. Jeff Bingaman's office. People getting Social Security and disability benefits who don't have to file tax returns are among those who have not claimed their checks, the release says. To claim their checks, New Mexicans must file 2007 tax returns. Normally due April 15, an extension allows a 2007 return to be filed as late as Oct. 15, the release says. Payments from the checks varied from $300 to $600 for individual taxpayers, and families with children were eligible for $1,200 plus an extra $300 per child. Most of the unclaimed checks would be for $300, the release states. The total checks add up to about $10 million, the release says. For help claiming your economic stimulus check contact Tax Help New Mexico. Phone: (505) 224-3000 ext. 5 Web site: http://www.cnm.edu/taxhelp/

Newstex ID: KRTB-0010-27569653