Stimulus funds still available to eligible

If you are among the thousands of seniors, veterans, their beneficiaries and disabled individuals in New York City that has not received your Economic Stimulus Payment from the federal government, Senator Serphin Maltese is urging that you double check your eligibility.
“If you do not normally file a federal income tax return or you filed for an extension this year, you may still be eligible for an economic stimulus payment from the federal government,” said Maltese. “However, in order to receive your money, you must file a return by October 15.”
Those eligible for the payment must have at least $3,000 of income, in any combination, from retirement, disability compensation, survivors’ benefits, certain combat pay and earned income from wages, salaries, tips or net earnings from self-employment.
The stimulus program will rebate $600 per individual, $1,200 per married couple and $300 for each qualifying child under age 17 as of December 31. Individuals with adjusted gross income above $75,000 and couples earning more than $150,000 will receive less.
“If you believe you may be eligible, the IRS is recommending you use their ‘Free File’ service, which is available from their web site,” noted Maltese. “My office will be glad to help anyone who has questions or needs assistance. Please be assured that this rebate will not affect next year’s income taxes and does not reduce any refunds or income-based benefits and it is non-taxable.”
For more information on the Economic Stimulus Payments for those who may be eligible, contact Maltese’s office at 718-497-1800 or visit the senator’s web site at www.senatorserfmaltese.com.