It's not too late for seniors to seek economic stimulus check

By Claudia Buck

Jun. 23, 2008 (McClatchy-Tribune News Service delivered by Newstex) -- It's not too late: That's the word from the IRS, which Thursday announced a push to get millions of eligible retirees and disabled veterans to apply for a federal stimulus payment.

The stimulus checks -- typically $600 for individuals or $1,200 for a married couple -- have already been issued to more than 76 million U.S. residents, part of a nationwide federal effort to pump up the economy. (Typically, seniors and veterans qualify for a minimum payment of $300, or $600 for married couples.)

Despite months of outreach, more than 615,000 potentially eligible Californians -- those receiving Social Security and veterans benefits -- have not filed the necessary 1040A tax form to claim a payment.

"We're now going the extra mile to help the remaining retirees and disabled veterans get their payment," said IRS spokesman Jesse Weller.

At the West Sacramento Senior Center, office manager Irene Santiago said she's been bombarded by requests from seniors seeking help filling out the 1040A forms. Some have been afraid to file a tax form or they misunderstand what's required, she said.

The 1040A form, designed for those who don't normally pay taxes, is a simplified tax form that requires only name, address, Social Security number, number of dependents, qualifying income (a minimum of $3,000 is required) and direct deposit information.

For help, go to www.irs.gov or call the IRS toll-free at (800) 829-1040.

About 5.2 million eligible seniors and disabled veterans who haven't yet filed a 1040A tax form will be receiving letters later this summer reminding them to apply. A sample tax form will be included. (If you've already filed your 2007 taxes, you don't need to do anything.)

The IRS also is partnering with community groups to set up taxpayer clinics and visit veterans centers, retirement complexes and assisted-living centers to provide assistance in filling out a 1040A form.

The deadline to file a 1040A tax form for a stimulus payment is Oct. 15.

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(Claudia Buck is the assistant business editor of The Sacramento Bee. Personal Finance Notebook answers questions about money matters, tapping a roster of experts for advice on navigating the often-confusing world of personal finance. Submit questions to cbuck@sacbee.com or P.O. Box 15779 Sacramento, CA 95852.)

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