LOW-INCOME SENIORS CAN FILE TAXES FOR FREE AT WASHINGTON’S OFFICE

            PHILADELPHIA, March 19: Senior citizens in the 4th Senatorial district who do not normally file a federal income tax return but want to receive an economic stimulus rebate check can make an appointment to have their 2007 taxes filed for free at state Sen. LeAnna Washington’s (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) district office.

Individuals must fill out a 2007 1040A tax form in order to receive an economic stimulus rebate, even if a household income does not meet the filing threshold.

“So many senior citizens do not have to file taxes because of their limited income from Social Security, but they, too, deserve an economic stimulus rebate,” Washington said. “I’m pleased to offer this free opportunity to have a tax professional help my older constituents file a tax return for free.

“I encourage seniors to call my district office if they need to file a tax return in order to receive a rebate,” she said.

Starting in May, the U.S. Department of the Treasury will send economic stimulus rebates to more than 130 million individuals and families, according to the IRS. Taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of income and file a 2007 federal tax return to receive a payment, the IRS said.

Millions of retirees, disabled veterans and low-wage workers across the country are exempt from filing a tax return; however, they must file a tax return this year in order to receive a stimulus payment, according to the IRS.

To make an appointment, senior citizens who did not file a federal income tax return last year can call the senator’s district office at 215-242-0472.