IRS sets March 29 to help Americans eligible for economic stimulus payments
Comet staff report

The Internal Revenue Service and scores of its partners nationwide will open hundreds of locations on Super Saturday, March 29, in an effort to reach those Americans who are eligible for the economic stimulus payment but who normally are not required to file an income tax return.

Approximately 320 IRS offices will be open on Super Saturday to prepare the simple Form 1040A for people who are filing a return solely to receive their stimulus payment. IRS partners such as AARP, United Way of America and dozens of others also are making special efforts on Super Saturday to reach out to those who normally are not required to file a tax return.

In this area, the Lafayette IRS office will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to provide free assistance. The office is located at 620 Morland Drive.

IRS field assistance personnel also will visit nursing homes and similar locations to prepare returns.

"We don't want any Americans to miss out on their economic stimulus payment," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. "For millions of Americans, filing a tax return is not routine. Their income is either too low or not taxable. But this year, filing a 2007 tax return is the only way to receive an economic stimulus payment. Super Saturday is one way the IRS and its partners are working to ensure everyone eligible receives a stimulus payment."

Millions of Americans who do not pay federal income taxes may be eligible for a $300 payment ($600 for married couples) if they have at least $3,000 in qualifying income. Qualifying income is defined as any combination of earned income such as wages, nontaxable combat pay and certain benefits from Social Security, Veterans Affairs and Railroad Retirement. Many households also will be eligible for an additional $300 for each qualifying child younger than 17.

A list of IRS offices and partner sites providing assistance on Super Saturday is available at www.irs.gov or by calling the IRS Hotline, 1-800-906-9887. If taxpayers have economic stimulus questions on March 29, they can call 1-866-234-2942 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. local time.