No return, no rebate

Realizing that many senior citizens are not aware they must file a 2007 Federal Income Tax form in order to qualify for the tax rebates recently signed into law by President Bush, the Anderson County Senior Center is working with AARP to make filing easy.

Free tax assistance will be available Wednesday, Feb. 27, at the senior center and on at least seven additional dates at either the center or the Anderson Public Library on a first-come, first-served basis.

"The Anderson County Senior Center is a natural place to sign people up," said Anderson County Senior Center Director Debbie Lottes. "

All taxpayers must have must have a valid social number and file a 2007 return if they are to receive the rebates, which are officially called "economic stimulus payments." They are scheduled to be distributed in May.

In most cases, payments will range from $300-$600 for individuals and $600-$1,200 for those who file jointly.

People who qualify for the rebates will also receive an additional $300 for each qualifying child.

Even seniors who don't normally file a return must file to receive a rebate.

Low-income workers who had at least $3,000 in earned income and other qualifying income in 2007, but do not otherwise earn enough to file a federal income tax return, also need to file one.

Other qualifying income includes social security benefits, certain railroad retirement benefits, and certain veteran's benefits.

"We're trying to get as much free help as possible," Lottes said. "From the number of phone calls we've received, I expect a big turnout. People need to remember to bring proof of income when they come."

Tax assistance schedule

Feb. 27: Senior Center

March 1: Public Library

March 5: Public Library

March 12: Senior Center

March 19: Public Library

March 26: Senior Center

April 2: Public Library

April 9: Public Library

Not a senior?

Liberty Tax Service on U.S. 127 Bypass in Lawrenceburg will prepare free tax returns through March 31 for people, including seniors, who do not meet regular filing requirements, the business' owners announced. For details, call 859-0303.