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Four Tips Recovery Rebate Credit

Four 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 and the payment is not taxable.

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

3. Did you have a major life change? If so, you may be eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit. Some of the major factors that could qualify you for the Recovery Rebate Credit include: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 dependent by someone else in 2008.

4. Any Recovery Rebate Credit amount will be included in your refund. The IRS will figure the credit for you and include it in your refund or put it toward any taxes owed.

Links:Recovery Rebate Information Center

Highlights of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

Congress has approved and the President has signed new economic recovery legislation, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The IRS is implementing tax-related provisions of this new program as quickly as possible.
Here are some key highlights:
Money Back for New Vehicle Purchases. Taxpayers who buy certain new vehicles in 2009 can deduct the state and local sales taxes they paid.

Increased Transportation Subsidy. Employer-provided benefits for transit and parking are up in 2009

Up to $2,400 in Unemployment Benefits Tax Free in 2009. Individuals should check their tax withholding.

Net Operating Loss Carryback. Small businesses can offset losses by getting refunds on taxes paid up to five years ago. Information on the carryback, an expanded section 179 deduction and other business-related provisions is now available.

COBRA: Health Insurance Continuation Subsidy. The IRS has extensive guidance for employers, including an updated Form 941, as well as information for qualifying individuals.

Notice 2009-27 is guidance provided under section 3001 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 relating to the premium reduction for individuals who were involuntarily terminated and are electing COBRA continuation coverage under the group health plan of their former employer. Notice 2009-27 will appear in IRB 2009-16 dated April 20, 2009.

First-Time Homebuyer Credit Expands. Homebuyers who purchase in 2009 can get a credit of up to $8,000 with no payback requirement.

Enchanced Credits for Tax Years 2009, 2010. Details available on the earned income tax credit, additional child tax credit and American Opportunity Credit, a new higher education benefit.
Payroll Checks Increase This Spring. The Making Work Pay Tax Credit will mean $400 to $800 for many Americans. The IRS has issued new withholding tables for employers.

$250 for Social Security Recipients, Veterans and Railroad Retirees. The Economic Recovery Payment will be paid by the Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs and the Railroad Retirement Board.