Governor David A. Paterson today reminded New Yorkers, including senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, disabled veterans and low-income workers who are not typically required to file a federal tax return, that they must do so this year in order to receive federal tax rebate checks. These checks are being sent out as part of the federal government’s plan to stimulate the economy and individuals must file a tax return to be eligible. The Governor also highlighted the availability of free tax preparation services so those who file can avoid commercial tax preparers’ fees.

Today, several state commissioners joined with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), local officials and community leaders at the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center to help launch the outreach effort.

Starting in May, the US Treasury will begin sending economic stimulus payments to more than 130 million households. To receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 in income and file a 2007 federal tax return. Eligible individuals will receive up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child younger than 17.

“We want to make certain that senior citizens who rely on Social Security and others on fixed incomes don’t spend their limited resources needlessly,” said Governor Paterson. “In addition, we want New Yorkers to know that the state and other community organizations have centers throughout New York offering free tax preparation that will allow these individuals to avoid fees charged by commercial tax preparers.”

The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) and other state agencies have been working with the IRS on outreach concerning the payments.

Acting IRS Commissioner Linda E. Stiff said: “Many people who don’t normally file a tax return may not realize they need to take an extra step this year to receive an economic stimulus payment. To help them get a stimulus payment, the IRS is doing everything we can to make this as easy as possible. We are also encouraging groups across New York to get out the word that low-income workers and others need to file a tax return in order to get a stimulus payment.”

OTDA sponsors Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites throughout the State, as does the United Way. AARP also sponsors similar volunteer tax-aide sites.

A list of VITA sites in every county is posted under programs and services, at www.otda.state.ny.us. Similar lists are available at www.aarp.org and through local United Way offices.

Albany Stratton VA Medical Center Director Mary-Ellen Piché expressed concern that a great many New Yorkers who don’t regularly file tax returns, and could miss out on the rebate from the stimulus package, would be veterans. She was very pleased though to point at the partnership between VA, IRS and New York State as an excellent example of interoffice cooperation and community stewardship benefiting veterans, and all New Yorkers.

OTDA and the state will disregard the rebates as income in determining benefits for low-income families. As a result, these families will not see a change in any of their benefits due to the rebate checks.

While all Social Security recipients receiving at least $3,000 are eligible for a rebate, recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are only eligible for a rebate if they have earned income of at lease $3,000 in addition to their monthly SSI. OTDA has identified more than 200,000 people statewide who fall into this category, of whom 8,500 live in adult homes. Targeted outreach is planned to make sure qualifying adult home residents are aware of their potential rebate.