KITCHEN REMINDS CONSTITUENTS OF ECONOMIC STIMULUS DEADLINE

            HARRISBURG, July 2 - State Sen. Shirley Kitchen reminded her constituents today that they may have until October 15 to file their tax returns in order to receive the Federal Economic Stimulus payment.

“The deadline to file a tax return was April 15, but those who were not required under law to file a tax return have until October 15 to file one in order to receive the rebate check,” Kitchen said.

“Internal Revenue Services requires a tax return from anyone who wants an Economic Stimulus payment check. Even those retirees, disabled veterans and low-wage workers who are not required to file a tax return must do so in order to let the IRS know that they are eligible for the refund.”

Taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, at least $3,000 in qualified income and file a 2007 federal tax return to receive a payment, the IRS said.

“Taxpayers 60 years of age and older with low and moderate incomes may receive federal and state tax-preparation assistance from the AARP Tax-Aide Program,” said Kitchen.

Interested citizens can call 1-888-687-2277 for locations.

The IRS also offers a way for taxpayers to electronically file their tax return. The “FREE File” is for those who have no legal requirement to file a tax return but must file a return this year in order to receive a 2008 Economic Stimulus payment.