The Douglas Dispatch

It’s not too late to file for the economic stimulus payment, the IRS said.

In Douglas, 418 people have yet to file for the rebate. As a result, the Catholic Community Services and the IRS are hosting a one-day event at the old Forest Service Station, 3081 N. Leslie Canyon Rd., Suite 5, in Douglas, on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., to help area residents file a 2007 tax return so they can receive the Economic Stimulus Payment, said William E. Brunson, an IRS spokesman.

Free help is available to individuals who have at least $3,000 in earnings and/or benefits from Social Security, VA disability, or a Retired Railroad Worker’s pension and normally don’t file income taxes. Trained volunteers will be available to answer questions about the economic stimulus payment and file a 2007 federal income tax return.

In Pirtleville, there are 32 people that qualify for rebates. In Elfrida there are 47 and in McNeal there are 50, Brunson said.

These individuals must file a 2007 federal income tax return in order to receive the payment.  Most people in this group are eligible to receive a stimulus payment of $300 or $600 for married couples filing jointly.

Douglas area residents need to bring: photo identification for themselves (and their spouses); Social Security Numbers for each person to be listed on the tax return; all 2007 statements showing SSA, VA or Railroad Retirement benefits paid (Form 1099-SSA, RRB-1099, monthly VA statements); all wage and earnings statements (Forms W-2) and any other information concerning income and expenses for 2007.  If married filing jointly, both spouses must be present to sign the tax form.

Tax returns will be electronically filed and stimulus payments can be directly deposited into your savings or checking account. “Electronic filing is the fastest, most accurate way to file a tax return and with direct deposit of your stimulus payment, your check can’t get lost or stolen,” said Rosa Mathews, IRS Spokesperson. Spanish speaking assistance will be available.  For more information, call 520-364-6789.