Free tax filing for stimulus checks

BY SUMMER HAUSMANN, Staff writer

Thanks to the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008, more than 130 million American households will receive economic stimulus payments beginning in May, but for some, the cost of having a tax assessor prepare their tax return, which is about $100, is not even worth the trouble of getting their stimulus payment.

That is why Debra White Finke & Associates is offering to do 2007 returns for free - no strings attached - to those who are only filing to receive their stimulus check.

Donna Wilson-Orozco, a partner of Debra White Finke & Associates, said they found this as a way that they could give back to the community after all the community has done for them.

Orozco says the only way to get a stimulus payment is to file a federal tax return for 2007, even if you don't normally file. Although some filers, such as high-income filers, will not qualify for a stimulus payment, most will.

Low-income workers, those who receive social security benefits or veterans' disability compensation, pension or survivors' benefits from the Department of veterans affairs in 2007 will be eligible to receive a payment of $300 ($600 on a joint return) if they had at least $3,000 of qualifying income. Families with children under 17 generally will qualify for an additional payment.

The IRS will provide special filing instructions for those who do not otherwise have a filing requirement, but to make it easier, Debra White Finke & Associates will do all the work for you. Orozco says to just bring in your social security card, benefits statement and earned income; they'll do the rest. She added that it only takes about five minutes, and they'll do it right then and there.

There are some criteria, though. IRS says that individuals or families must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income, which can be income from or in combination with social security benefits, veterans' affairs benefits, railroad retirement benefits and earned income. Filers must have a social security number; no tax identification numbers (TIN's) allowed. Filers cannot be claimed as dependents or eligible to be claimed as dependents on another's tax return.

Orozco says although it's best to file by the normal April 15 tax deadline, as long as you file in the year of 2008, you can receive your stimulus payment. Of course, the sooner you file, the sooner you can receive your stimulus payment. 

“It's hard to find ways to give back to the community,” Orozco said, “but this is one way. We're helping the people who can't help themselves.”

To receive your free 2007 tax return, go to Debra White Finke & Associates, located at 1114 N. LaSalle in Navasota, or contact Donna Wilson-Orozco at 936-825-6395. Se habla espanol.