Economic Stimulus Payments Information Center

Starting in May, the 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 of income and file a 2007 federal tax return.

The Basics

• Basic Information on the Stimulus Payments
• IR-2008-18, IRS Will Send Stimulus Payments Automatically Starting in May; Eligible Taxpayers Must File a 2007 Tax Return to Receive Rebate
• FS-2008-15, Facts about the 2008 Stimulus Payments 
• IR-2008-21, More Information on Stimulus Payments Posted to IRS.gov; New Details for Recipients of Social Security, Veterans Benefits
• IR-2008-28, Special Economic Stimulus Letters Reach Mailboxes in March

Stimulus Payment Scenarios

• Married with Qualifying Children
• Married without Qualifying Children
• Married Filing Separately, with or without Qualifying Children
• Single (Head of Household) with Qualifying Children
• Single without Qualifying Children

Frequently Asked Questions

We have the answers to your questions in Stimulus Payments: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions.

Especially for Social Security Recipients

Many people who receive Social Security benefits are not required to file a tax return. But they need to this year to get the stimulus payment. Many can use the simpler Form 1040A.

Also see:

• More Information for Recipients of Social Security Benefits
• Sample of filled-out Form 1040A
• FS-2008-16, Stimulus Payments: Instructions for Low-Income Workers and Recipients of Social Security and Certain Veterans’ Benefits
• Flyer for Social Security Recipients (PDF)
• Notice 2008-28, Guidance for people not otherwise required to file a tax return.

Especially for Veterans' Benefits Recipients

Many veterans who receive benefits from Veterans Affairs are not required to file a tax return. But they need to this year to get the stimulus payment. Many can use the simpler Form 1040A.

• More Information for Recipients of Veterans' Benefits
• Sample of filled-out Form 1040A
• FS-2008-16, Stimulus Payments: Instructions for Low-Income Workers and Recipients of Social Security and Certain Veterans’ Benefits.
• Flyer for VA Benefit Recipients (PDF)
• Notice 2008-28, Guidance for people not otherwise required to file a tax return.

Rebate Scam Alert

Be aware that identity thieves are already pushing scams involving the stimulus payments. At least one telephone scam is making the rounds using the proposed rebates as bait. News release IR-2008-11, IRS Warns of New E-Mail and Telephone Scams Using the IRS Name; Advance Payment Scams Starting, has more details.