~ Senior citizens and veterans who don’t normally file need to do so to receive payments ~

Saint Paul – With the federal tax deadline two weeks away, Governor Tim Pawlenty today encouraged all eligible Minnesotans to file a federal tax return to ensure they will receive a stimulus check later this year.

While most Minnesotans file every year, those who do not, such as senior citizens receiving Social Security payments or veterans receiving Veterans Administration benefits, must do so this year in order to be eligible under the stimulus plan. To be eligible individuals must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income in 2007.

“It’s important that every eligible Minnesotan file a federal tax return this year, so no one is missed when stimulus checks are sent out,” Governor Pawlenty said. “If you have a family member or neighbor who doesn’t normally file taxes, please check with them to make sure they submit a return this year.”

If you are filing a federal tax return only in order to receive a stimulus payment, the IRS encourages you to file by the normal April 15 deadline because the sooner you file, the sooner you can receive your payment.

Those filing for the stimulus payment are asked to fill out Form 1040A in a few places. The IRS has a sample version, and information about free tax preparation and electronic filing for those filing to receive a stimulus payment on their website: www.irs.gov. Assistance is available over the phone by calling toll-free 1-800-829-1040.

Stimulus payments range from $300 to $600 for individuals and $600 to $1,200 for married couples filing jointly. Eligible taxpayers who qualify for a payment may receive an additional $300 for each child under age 17.