Don't miss the fast approaching tax filing deadline

April 15 is just around the corner so if you still have not filed your 2007 income tax return and you made less than $45,000 last year, there is still time for you to receive free income tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

All returns are filed electronically and taxpayers can expect to receive their refund within seven to 10 days. Those eligible to participate in the VITA Program may also qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and other additional tax credits.

Residents must file a 2007 tax return in order to receive an economic stimulus payment. While most wage earners do not need to take extra steps other than filing a return, people who are not normally required to file must do so this year in order to receive a rebate. This includes low-income workers, those who receive Social Security benefits and those who receive veteran’s disability compensation, pension or survivor benefits. Taxpayers in these groups will need to file a special version of the Form 1040A. In addition, they need to write the words “Stimulus Payment” at the top in order to ensure processing.

In most cases, the rebate will equal the amount of tax liability on the return with a minimum of $300 for individuals or $600 for taxpayers who file jointly and a maximum of $600 for individuals or $1,200 for taxpayers who file jointly. In addition, parents who are eligible for a stimulus payment will receive an additional $300 for each qualifying child.

To find the nearest VITA site, call the United Way help line at 227-4357 or 2-1-1.

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