WASHINGTON, D.C. - Nearly $3 million in economic stimulus rebate checks have gone unclaimed by Central Coast residents -- and the deadline to file is October 15. Nearly 10,000 on the Central Coast have failed to file a tax return for 2007, the step necessary to receive their rebate checks.
"Congress sent the president a stimulus bill earlier this year to bolster our economy, but those payments have become even more important for families who are facing high food and gas prices," said Congressman Sam Farr (D-Carmel). "Thousands of Central Coast residents have money waiting for them, they just need to file the 1040 for 2007 by October 15."
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a Washington think tank, most of those who failed to file are older Americans and disabled veterans who normally would not file tax returns.
In Monterey County, 5,215 have failed to file for rebates worth $1,564,500.
In Santa Cruz County, 3,879 have failed to file for rebates worth $1,163,700.
In San Benito County, 548 have failed to file for rebates worth $164,400.
Individuals will receive stimulus payments up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples) or the amount of the taxpayer's 2007 income tax liability, whichever is less. There also is a $300 payment for each qualifying child.
For people with no tax liability who wouldn't file a tax return because their income is too low or nontaxable, there is a stimulus payment of up to $300 ($600 for married couples), plus the $300 payment for each qualifying child. People in this situation must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income from earned income, nontaxable combat pay or certain benefits from Social Security, Veterans Affairs and Railroad Retirement.
"We recognize that there may be older Americans and disabled veterans who still have not filed for their stimulus payment," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. "If you know of a friend, neighbor or family members who may be in that situation, please give them a hand if they need it."
IRS employees are available to help prepare returns for low-income workers, retirees, disabled veterans and others. Taxpayer assistance is available at the Salinas office, located at 55 Plaza Circle, 831-771-1231. The San Jose Taxpayer Advocate Service office also offers assistance: 408-817-6850.
