Attention: Time is running out to apply for stimulus payments

MONTEREY - Retirees, survivors and disabled persons have less than three months to apply for their $300 payments under the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008. All applications must be filed with the Internal Revenue Service by Oct.15.

According to the IRS, as of June, eligible area residents have not yet filed a Form 1040A to claim their payment. This includes individuals who receive Social Security payments as retirees, survivors or disability payments, those who receive income through Railroad Retirement system, and those who receive Veterans Administration disability benefits. Recipients of Supplemental Security Income are not eligible to receive Stimulus Payments.

"We know that many local seniors are extremely concerned about the ever-increasing cost of living; "$300, or $600 for a couple, could be a godsend as we all face rising costs for utilities, transportation, food, and other necessities," said Wilke, senior center director.

Help with completing the forms is available from the Virginia Program for Aging Services case manager or at the senior center. "When someone brings us their Statement of 2007 Income from Social Security, Railroad Retirement, or the VA, along with their 2007 W-2 Form if they had any earned income from a job last year, we can complete the form in about 15 minutes. We urge families and friends of those who reside in care facilities to complete the form for their loved ones to file," Wilke said.

Those who receive public assistance benefits, including subsidized housing, that the Stimulus Payment cannot be counted as income, and will not be included in assets in the month it is received or the following month.

For more information, contact Wilke at (540) 468-2178 or e-mail: kate@vpas.info.