print this pageEconomic Stimulus Payments
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. IRS will take care of the rest. Eligible people will receive up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child younger than 17. Millions of retirees, disabled veterans and low-wage workers who usually are exempt from filing a tax return must do so this year in order to receive a stimulus payment.
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
- IR-2008-37, Special Economic Stimulus Payment Packages Go to Social Security, Veterans Recipients
Economic Stimulus Payment Calculator
A new online calculator will give you an estimate of the stimulus payment you may be due. Just answer a few questions and the calculator will do the rest. Remember: you must file a 2007 tax return in order to receive the payment.
Economic Stimulus Payment Schedule
Economic stimulus payments will be issued according to the last two-digits of the main filer's Social Security number. For joint filers, the payments will go out based on the person listed first on the return. Payments will be made by either direct deposit or paper check, consistent with how people filed their 2007 tax return.
People who use direct deposit also will be among the first to receive the payments starting April 28.