Minnesota Budget Project - Resources on the Stimulus and Free Tax Preparation

See our analysis, Federal Economic Stimulus Bill Reaches More People, But Leaves out Quickest-Acting Measures, for more details on the stimulus legislation.

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Resources on the Stimulus Tax Rebate and Free Tax Preparation

In February 2008, the President signed into law a $168 billion economic stimulus package. The centerpiece is $112 billion in tax rebates to an estimated 130 million Americans. For most households, the rebate will be at least $300 for individuals and $600 for a married couple. Households with dependent children will also receive an additional $300 per child.

In order to receive a rebate, an individual or household must:

File a tax return for tax year 2007.
Have a valid social security number
Earn at least $3,000 in “qualifying” income. Qualifying income includes earned income, social security benefits and veterans’ benefits.

About 20 million low-income earners, seniors and veterans qualify for a tax rebate. But they must file a tax return (1040 form) this year in order to receive it, even if a household owes no income taxes and usually does not file a federal tax return.

Many low-income people haven't claimed their stimulus payment because their incomes were too low for them to have to file a tax return this year. On June 20, the IRS announced just over 5 million of those 20 million people had not yet filed, leaving more than $15 billion in benefits unclaimed nationally.

Fortunately, eligible people have until October 15th to file. To file, they can use a new and easy-to-use online tool designed by the AARP and the National Council on Aging.

Resources on Stimulus Tax Rebates

The Internal Revenue Service has updated information on how to determine eligibility for the stimulus tax rebate, as well as a tool to calculate how much you may qualify for. In addition, they have a site search to locate local Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TAC) as a source for personal tax assistance.
Accountability Minnesota has published an informational flier for tax filers who want to find out if they are eligible.
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has full-color fliers in English and Spanish, along with additional materials at their web site.

Resources on Free Tax Preparation

The Minnesota Department of Revenue provides contact information for free tax preparation sites throughout Minnesota.

2314 University Ave W. #20
St. Paul, MN 55114
Phone: 651.642.1904
Greater Minnesota: 1.800.289.1904
Fax: 651.642.1517
Email: