GOVERNOR PATERSON REMINDS NEW YORKERS TO FILE FEDERAL TAX RETURNS
Governor David A. Paterson today reminded New Yorkers, including senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, disabled veterans and low-income workers who are not typically required to file a federal tax return, that they must do so this year in order to receive federal tax rebate checks. These checks are being sent out as part of the federal government's plan to stimulate the economy and individuals must file a tax return to be eligible. The Governor also highlighted the availability of free tax preparation services so those who file can avoid commercial tax preparers' fees.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Governor David A. Paterson today reminded New Yorkers, including senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, disabled veterans and low-income workers who are not typically required to file a federal tax return, that they must do so this year in order to receive federal tax rebate checks. These checks are being sent out as part of the federal government’s plan to stimulate the economy and individuals must file a tax return to be eligible. The Governor also highlighted the availability of free tax preparation services so those who file can avoid commercial tax preparers’ fees.
Today, several state commissioners joined with the Internal Revenue Service ( IRS ), local officials and community leaders at the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center to help launch the outreach effort.
Starting in May, the US Treasury will begin sending economic stimulus payments to more than 130 million households. To receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 in income and file a 2007 federal tax return. Eligible individuals will receive up to $600 ( $1,200 for married couples ), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child younger than 17.
“We want to make certain that senior citizens who rely on Social Security and others on fixed incomes don’t spend their limited resources needlessly,” said Governor Paterson. “In addition, we want New Yorkers to know that the state and other community organizations have centers throughout New York offering free tax preparation that will allow these individuals to avoid fees charged by commercial tax preparers.”
The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance ( OTDA ) and other state agencies have been working with the IRS on outreach concerning the payments.
Acting IRS Commissioner Linda E. Stiff said: “Many people who don't normally file a tax return may not realize they need to take an extra step this year to receive an economic stimulus payment. To help them get a stimulus payment, the IRS is doing everything we can to make this as easy as possible. We are also encouraging groups across New York to get out the word that low-income workers and others need to file a tax return in order to get a stimulus payment.”
OTDA sponsors Volunteer Income Tax Assistance ( VITA ) sites throughout the State, as does the United Way. AARP also sponsors similar volunteer tax-aide sites.
A list of VITA sites in every county is posted under programs and services, at www.otda.state.ny.us. Similar lists are available at www.aarp.org and through local United Way offices.
Albany Stratton VA Medical Center Director Mary-Ellen Piché expressed concern that a great many New Yorkers who don’t regularly file tax returns, and could miss out on the rebate from the stimulus package, would be veterans. She was very pleased though to point at the partnership between VA, IRS and New York State as an excellent example of interoffice cooperation and community stewardship benefiting veterans, and all New Yorkers.
Albany Stratton VA Medical Center Director Mary-Ellen Piché said: “Many veterans who don’t have reportable income, whether they are retired or receiving compensation and pension benefits, may not realize they need to file a form to receive the tax rebate provided through the stimulus program. As a service to our veterans, we’ve been helping them complete and mail in the necessary form. In addition, I’m pleased to announce that on March 29, the IRS will be at the Stratton VAMC Wilson Lounge, located on the fourth floor, to answer questions and help veterans complete the necessary form to ensure they receive the tax stimulus rebate check due to them. This service will be provided free-of-charge.”
OTDA and the state will disregard the rebates as income in determining benefits for low-income families. As a result, these families will not see a change in any of their benefits due to the rebate checks.
OTDA Commissioner David Hansell said: “In keeping with the goal of helping to stimulate the economy, we want seniors and other low-income rebate recipients to spend this money in their community on household expenses and other necessities. They should receive every dollar they’re entitled to and we want them to know that free tax help is available if they need it.”
While all Social Security recipients receiving at least $3,000 are eligible for a rebate, recipients of Supplemental Security Income ( SSI ) are only eligible for a rebate if they have earned income of at lease $3,000 in addition to their monthly SSI. OTDA has identified more than 200,000 people statewide who fall into this category, of whom 8,500 live in adult homes. Targeted outreach is planned to make sure qualifying adult home residents are aware of their potential rebate.
Albany County Executive Michael Breslin said: "To get maximum benefit we must ensure all those eligible know they must file a federal income tax return and free tax preparation service is available.”
Office for the Aging Director Michael Burgess said: “The rapidly rising costs of food, energy and health care are putting a serious inflationary strain on retirees living on fixed incomes. The federal rebate is very much anticipated and we want to encourage and assist low-income persons who may not usually file a return to apply for it.”
Department of Taxation and Finance Commissioner Robert L. Megna said: “Taxpayers are reminded that the rebate payments are not subject to New York or federal income tax. In order to get the rebate payment in 2008, taxpayers must file a 2007 federal tax return. No other action, extra form or call is necessary. New Yorkers will not be required to file a 2007 New York tax return if they filed a federal tax return solely to get the rebate.”
Mindy A. Bockstein, Chairperson and Executive Director of the New York State Consumer Protection Board said: “People who are usually not required to file tax returns can look forward to a little extra money in their pockets if they meet the IRS criteria and file this year. While free assistance to complete the paperwork is available, if consumers decide to use a tax prep firm, they should make sure the company they choose is legitimate before providing any personal information. To avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, consumers need to watch for potential scams involving fraudulent e-mails and telemarketers requesting banking and other financial information and claiming to deposit refunds and rebates for them. Consumers should protect and empower themselves so they can receive and enjoy their money.”
Department of Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D. said: “We look forward to working with the health care providers to make sure that all eligible New Yorkers receive this benefit.”
Karen Schimke, President and CEO of the Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy, as well as Co-Convener of the NYS Coalition for Adult Home Reform, said: “Many residents of adult homes have earned income and are eligible for a rebate but would not otherwise file a federal tax return. These are resources that can help residents in their recovery and their efforts to achieve their greatest possible level of self-sufficiency."
Acting New York State Director for AARP Luci de Haan said: “It is extremely important that the more than 20 million people nationwide who depend on Social Security payments to survive know how to apply for their refund. AARP’s Tax-Aide program is ready to assist low-income seniors over the age of 60 in preparing their tax documents, a requirement for receiving a check. It is also important to note that other benefits seniors may receive from the federal government will not be impacted by the economic stimulus payment.”
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