Guidelines for Stimulus Checks

From time to time, the federal government will provide supplemental income to tax-paying citizens and residents, depending on the state of the country's economy. However, the process is often confusing, and you may be unsure of how to proceed without guidance.

Taxes

Fill out your tax forms completely and on time.

Send in your taxes to the Internal Revenue Service in a timely fashion to ensure receipt of any stimulus money coming your way. After the IRS has processed your information, the organization will send you a check based on whatever the national decree states at the time. If your tax information is incorrect or late, this will hold up the process.

Government

Stimulus checks are only available when the federal government approves them for all citizens or for certain groups of people. For instance, in 2008, two stimulus checks were sent out to all families or individuals meeting the guidelines. There are no stimulus checks slated for 2010, but there is legislation pending regarding checks to be sent out to veterans and senior citizens.

Returns

During years when there is no specific stimulus payout, the federal government will often include a special monetary supplement in regular tax returns through credits. In 2010, the credit is named "Making Working Pay" and will supplement tax returns by $400 to $800, according to Saving to Inve$t.