File a tax return this year, even if you don't owe any taxes!

[allanq]

Someone asked about this in the off-topic forum, but I thought it was worth repeating here. I'm not sure if it's already been mentioned, but as tax time draws near, it deserves a rerun.

Usually, if your income is below a certain level, you don't have to file a U.S. tax return. However, this year is different! If you received at least $3,000 in Social Security payments or certain other benefits, you qualify for a $300 tax rebate, even if your total income is too low to pay any taxes.

Here's a portion of an article from today's Wall Street Journal:

"Individuals should remember that the only way to get a stimulus payment is to file a 2007 tax return," the IRS said. Those not required to file a 2007 return but who received at least $3,000 in Social Security, veterans or certain other kinds of benefits need to file a Form 1040A to get the rebate.

Form 1040A is very simple and should only take a few minutes to fill out. So don't waste your money by hiring a tax preparer like H&R Block.

Allan

[mjmel]

Wouldn't it be horrible if this 'relief' backfired and caused people more than $300 worth of grief.

OK, i don't trust the current administration/tyrant ruler. I admit it. I guess tax strategies are a pretty safe bet. You think?

Mike

[Oceanbeach]

I don't believe the current administration could cause more grief than has already been done and I have read the other post in Off Topic.  For spending 20 minutes and a postage stamp, the chance of getting 300 bucks seems worth the time and effort.  Have the best day
Michael

[LordBerners]

I have no income - can I get the $300?

[Queen Tokelove]

I got the Stimulus letter in the mail.I tried to do the efile thing but kept getting stopped when I didn't know my husband's social security number which drove me to distraction. Why the hell would I know it? I been separated from the bastard for over 7 years so I did the paper form and mailed it off. What seems to be confusing folks in my neck of the woods is which social security benefits are allowed to get the stimulus.

[BT65]

I have no income - can I get the $300?

You don't get any income?  Not even social security? 

[LordBerners]

You don't get any income?  Not even social security? 

Well I get paid in Thailand, but I don't report that in america.  Wish I could get social security.