2008 Economic Stimulus Rebate

What is the 2008 Economic Stimulus Rebate?

To try to help the economy, the U.S. government is giving money back to some people. The payments will be up to $600 per adult, and up to $300 per child.

Do I qualify for one of these rebate checks?

You qualify for a rebate check if had more than $3,000 of income in 2007from wages, Social Security, SSDI, or certain veterans or railroad retirement benefits.

Unfortunately, you will not get a rebate check if your only income was from SSI, TAFDC, or EAEDC.

I am not a U.S. citizen. Can I still get the rebate check?

If you qualify for the rebate, but you are not a US citizen, you can still get the payment if you have a valid Social Security Number.

How much money will I get?

The amount of your payment depends on your income for 2007.

The IRS will figure out the amount, but you will get at least $300 each for yourself, for each child under 17, and for your spouse if you are filing jointly.  

This means that a married couple with two children will get at least $1,200.

What do I have to do to get the rebate check?

You have to file a 2007 tax return. That's all.

If you worked, you should file your tax return even if you do not owe any taxes, so that you can get this rebate check. 

If you are a senior getting Social Security or a veteran getting disability benefits, you still need to file an income tax return in order to get the rebate check. You can use a simplified IRS form 1040A, available at most public libraries. You should write 'Stimulus Payment' at the top of the form. Look at a sample of how to fill out the form.

When will I get the check?

You should get your your checks in the mail sometime between May and July. If you choose to get the money by direct deposit into a bank account, you may get it sooner.

 

What if I file my tax return late?

You can still get the rebate as long as you file your 2007 tax return by October 15, 2008. 

 

Can I get free help filing my taxes and getting this payment?

Yes. There is a program called Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) which can help you fill out all the paperwork for free.

 Search by zip code for a free tax clinic near you, or call 1-800-829-1040.