Tips to Help Taxpayers Avoid Errors on the Recovery Rebate Credit

Most taxpayers who received the economic stimulus payment last year will not be able to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2008 federal income tax returns.  A small number of taxpayers who did not receive the full economic stimulus payment last year may be eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2008 federal income tax return.  Figuring the Recovery Rebate Credit incorrectly or entering inaccurate information will delay the processing of your tax return and any refund due.

Below are the four things every taxpayer should know about this one-time credit, which is related to last year’s Economic Stimulus Payment:

1. You do not have to pay back your Stimulus Payment.

2. The payment is not taxable.

3. Less than an estimated 3 percent of taxpayers are eligible to receive the credit.  The vast majority of taxpayers are not eligible to receive the Recovery Rebate Credit.

4. Did you have a major life change?  If so, you may be eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2008 return.  Some of the major factors that could qualify you for the Recovery Rebate Credit in 2008 include the following:

•  Your financial situation changed dramatically from 2007 to 2008.

•  You did not file a 2007 tax return.

•  Your family gained an additional qualifying child in 2008.

•  You were claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return in 2007, but cannot be claimed as a dependent by someone else in 2008.

5. The credit, even if received in 2007, was actually an advanced rebate credit payment from your 2008 return and you will need to account for the rebate amount on your 2008 return.

If you have questions regarding this rebate credit, please give this office a call.

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