Q- HELP! This rebate thing is confusing me!  I have heard that benefits recipients are eligible for a check; I have also heard that benefits recipients are not eligible for a check.  I have heard the amount is $300.00 or maybe $600.00.  What are the rules?  I have a little income from a part time job, and receive both SSI and SSDI.  Am I eligible for a check?  If so, how much and what should I do?

A- Yes, people on benefits can receive a stimulus check.
Individuals with at least $3,000.00 dollars in “qualifying” income will receive the stimulus payment.  Qualifying income can be Social Security benefits (including SSDI), earned income, self-employment income, and some veterans benefits. 

NOTE:  SSI benefits do not count toward the $3,000.00 qualifying income threshold.

The amount of your check will depend on your total qualifying income, marital status, and number of dependent children.  Assuming your single, without dependents, and have $3,000 in qualifying income, your check will be $300.00.  Remember, in your case, both your earnings from your part-time job and your SSDI benefit count toward the qualifying income threshold.  The higher your qualifying income, the larger the stimulus payment.  The amount of the check increases to a maximum of $600.00 per person depending on the amount of your qualifying income, marital status, and number of dependent children.  Check out the IRS stimulus payment calculator at www.irs.gov/app/espc/

One caution: Those who are claimed or who are eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return cannot get a payment. 

All you have to do to get the stimulus payment is file a 2007 IRS Form 1040 or Form 1040A and report at least $3,000 in qualifying income on the form.  Remember, even if you are not required to file a tax return, you may still be entitled to an economic stimulus payment.

The IRS will mail a packet of information to recipients of Social Security benefits who did not file a tax return last year. The packet will contain the forms necessary to help you claim the stimulus payment. If you need information in the interim, you can visit the IRS web site at www.irs.gov.