(NAPSI)-You may be among the 130 million Americans who could get an economic stimulus payment from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For most people, getting it is simple: Just file your income tax return and wait for the check to arrive. For 12 million older Americans who don’t ordinarily file taxes, however, the process requires an extra step.
To help, AARP Tax-Aide (an AARP Foundation program) and the National Council on Aging have teamed up to create tools that streamline the application process. They also have volunteers online to answer any questions not covered in the materials.
“We are encouraging friends, family and community organizations across the nation to join the 32,000 volunteers at AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program who are looking out for and helping older Americans securely receive their stimulus payments,” said Tom Nelson, AARP’s chief operating officer.
At www.aarp.org/stimulus you will find step-by-step instructions on how to apply and tips to avoid scams. You can print out a completed economic stimulus form after answering a few simple questions.
It’s important to know that even if Social Security, certain veterans’ benefits, certain railroad retirement benefits, or earned income is all you earned in 2007, you may still be eligible for the payment.
What many do not know is that people have plenty of time to apply for the payment. The IRS will be accepting applications until the fall.
AARP warns there are scams and con artists poised to use this opportunity for their own profit. The IRS will
never call you to ask for your Social Security number or bank account information or send you a letter asking you to respond by phone or e-mail, and no IRS agent will ever come to your home.
If you have already filed your taxes or applied for the economic stimulus payment, spread the word to friends, family, and neighbors who might need a little help. With online materials, thousands of volunteers across the country, and trusted family and friends, there are many resources people can use.
