Haven’t filed your taxes yet? There’s still time

Although April 15 has passed, it’s still not too late for some people to file their returns.

Retirees, disabled veterans and others who normally don’t have to file a tax return can still submit a 2007 return to receive an economic stimulus payment, Michael Devine, Internal Revenue Service spokesman, said.

According to the federal law, to receive an economic stimulus payment, someone must file a tax return, even if they don’t need to, he said. The tax form can be a 1040A or 1040.

To qualify for an economic stimulus payment, people must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income. Qualifying income includes any combination of earned income, nontaxable combat pay as well as certain payments from Social Security, Veterans Affairs and Railroad Retirement.

“Don’t worry if you did not file a return by April 15. If you meet the criteria, you are still eligible for a stimulus payment,” Doug Shulman, IRS Commissioner, said. “The quicker you file, the quicker you’ll get your payment.”

People must file a return by Oct. 15 to receive an economic stimulus payment this year, he said.

Shulman said friends and family members should reach out to acquaintances or relatives who may either be unaware of the economic stimulus payment or unable to file the tax return themselves.

“We need everyone’s help to make sure all eligible people get the economic stimulus payments,” he added.

For taxpayers who are required to file an income tax return, the IRS will use the 2007 tax return to determine eligibility for economic stimulus payments of up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples). There also is a payment of $300 for each qualifying child younger than 17.

Those not required to file a return because their income is too low or nontaxable must file a tax return to obtain their economic stimulus payment.

Forms and instructions are available at the IRS’s Web site www.irs.gov.

IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers and some community volunteer tax assistance sites can also provide help. To find an IRS office near you, go to www.irs.gov and click on “Contact IRS,” then “Contact Your Local IRS Office” or call 1-800-906-9887 to find the nearest volunteer tax assistance sit.

People who want to file their own return via the Internet can still use “Free File – Economic Stimulus Payment” at www.irs.gov. This program provides free software and free electronic filing of Form 1040A, and it remains open after April 15, Devine said.