Peabody wants vets, seniors to get their economic stimulus checks

PEABODY-The city has announced it will extend help to seniors and veterans in need of their Federal Economic Stimulus checks.Roughly 1,300 Peabody residents are still awaiting their $300 checks, according to the city’s veteran agent Christopher Tighe. The city would much rather see that money, totalling $400,000, in the pockets of deserving citizens, particularly during the fragile economic state.”Many people, because of various legitimate reasons, such as, not meeting the income threshold, do not file a federal tax return with the IRS,” said Mayor Michael Bonfanti. “This year, however, they should file in order to get their economic stimulus check.”According to the IRS Web site, some veterans and seniors fear filing for their stimulus check. They believe the extra income could potentially prevent them from receiving other benefits, trigger future audits, or require them to pay taxes on it. The IRS reports no such things could happen.”If you are receiving benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs for disability, pension, or survivors benefits, you may be eligible for an economic stimulus check from the federal government,” said Tighe. “The city will be joining up and working closely with Congressman (John) Tierney’s Office and other federal agencies to ensure that all eligible individuals know what to do to receive a stimulus check.”Bonfanti, too, said the city would be doing “everything possible to help make sure the most deserving members of our community – our veterans and seniors – are not leaving much needed help on the table.””These people are not strangers, they are our parents, grandparents, and neighbors and many are members of the Greatest Generation,” he said. “We can’t do this alone, though, so if it’s your grandparent or parent, if it’s your neighbor who’s a disabled vet, give them a nudge and say, ‘Hey, go get your money if you haven’t already done so,'” said Bonfanti.In order to receive the federal check, residents must file a tax return no later than Oct. 15, 2008. The city will run free workshops from within the Torigian Community Life Center for those needing assistance with the filing process. The public is welcome to stop in from 9-1 p.m., residents may receive assistance between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.The Peabody Municipal Light Plant will also be mailing out reminder notices to all subscribers in the city.Several other locations will be set up throughout the city, as well, where those who have yet to file a tax return can pick up the necessary forms. For more information, contact 978-531-2254.