Do you believe these six tax rebate myths?

Here are myths the IRS is trying to debunk:

Myth:
The stimulus payment will reduce a taxpayer’s 2008 refund.

Fact:
The payment will not reduce refunds
or increase the amount owed
when a 2008 return is filed.

Myth:
The stimulus payment is taxable.

Fact:
It is not taxable,
but taxpayers are encouraged to keep a copy of the IRS notice
they will receive later this year listing the amount of their payment.

In the event a taxpayer does not qualify
to receive the full amount this year
but does next year,
the notice will be a record of the previous amount received.

Myth:
Taxpayers needn’t do anything in order to receive a stimulus payment.

Fact:

Taxpayers must file a 2007 tax return in order to be eligible for a payment.

After filing a 2007 return: however, the taxpayer is set and the IRS will do the rest.

Myth:
Everybody is eligible for a check.

Fact:
At the minimum, a taxpayer must have at least $3,000 of “qualifying income”
to receive a minimum of $300 for single filers
or $600 for married taxpayers filing a joint return.

Qualifying income includes:

• Social Security benefits,
• certain Railroad Retirement benefits,
• certain veterans’ benefits
• and earned income, such as:
  • income from wages,
  • salaries
  • tips
  • and self-employment.

  For taxpayers filing joint tax returns,
  only a total of $3,000 of qualifying income from both spouses
  is required to be eligible.

  Also, for those who don’t normally file,
  a tax return – Form 1040A -
  will be needed this year to get a check.

  Myth:
  Only paper checks will be issued.

  Fact:
  Direct deposit is the best way to receive the payment.

  Eligible taxpayers who choose direct deposit for their 2007 tax year refund
  will receive their stimulus payment the same way.

  Myth:
  The IRS will contact taxpayers either by telephone or e-mail
  about their payments.

  Fact:
  Watch for scams.

  IRS will not contact taxpayers by telephone or e-mail
  about stimulus payments or refunds.

  Source: www.irs.gov