Rebate Question - yes another one!

[BulldogTom]

I sent this mother of 4 home with only 1800 of W2 income (her spouse died the year before, not working, sad story) with no withholdings. No need to file. She does not meet the income limits for the $300 payment. But the IRS instructions say

"Parents and anyone else eligible for a stimulus payment will also recieve an additional $300 for each qualifying child. To qualify, the child must be eliegible under the Child Tax Credit....ss#"

Since she is divorced, she is going to give her ex a 8332 this year for 2 kids. He is coming in tomorrow. She could really use the payment this summer (her savings and life insurance are running out).

Should I file a return for her? Will she get the $300 per child?

So confused. Need an adult beverage.

Tom

Lodi, CA

[Eli]

Tom, IF it were me I would file it for her on the chance that she MIGHT get the 300 per child. These types really tug on your heart huh??

Eli

[AnnieR]

I've been trying to post the link but I don't seem to be able to. Sooo - Go to irs.gov and click on Stimulus Payments: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions. It has some answers to the questions we've all been asking.

AnnieR

[BulldogTom]

Thanks Ann. I went there but it does not address this exact circumstance.

Tom

Lodi, CA

[jainen]

>>it does not address this exact circumstance<<

You can't get an additional credit unless you are eligible for the basic credit.

[JerryH]

I had a similar situation. I don't believe they qualify for the rebate this year but hopefully the income will be up in 2008 so they'll get it when filing the 2008 tax return next year.

[Maura]

Bulldog... Did she not qualify for the EIC?

[Teri2414]

My question is the difference between 'qualifying' and actually being due a credit. Many 'qualify' to take the CTC but due to income deductions do not use the credit nor get it back in the ACTC. I have not found answers about this discrepancy either. As well as, Social Security Disability qualifying. And that one hits home because my ex and his wife receive Social Security Disability and do not have to file anymore - he lets me claim all the kids now when we used to split. Are they at least eligible for $300 a piece?

[ajuroff]

Do any of these children qualify her for the EIC? If children lived with her more than half of '07, she may qualify. (considering all other rules are met) And if children lived with mom more than half of '07, dad cannot get the EIC.