Patterson Helps Senior Citizens Receive Incentive Checks

Pontiac, MI, September 9, 2008 - Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, during a news conference today, launched a program to help senior citizens in Oakland County who have not received their Economic Stimulus Payments from the federal government.

Patterson's action was prompted by an Internal Revenue Service report which indicates there are more than 15,000 older adults in Oakland County who have not received payment.  Individuals who receive Veterans, Railroad or Social Security benefits (not SSI), but usually do not file a federal tax return, will be provided help in filling out a 1040A form.

"This is a unique opportunity for older adults in Oakland County to get the assistance they need, so they can receive the money to which they are entitled" Patterson said.  "I would encourage anyone in the county who qualifies to take advantage of this free offer."

George Miller, director of Health and Human Services for Oakland County, who attended the news conference with Patterson, says seniors should bring with them the following items:

• Picture identification (drivers license or State I.D.)
• Social Security Card for any dependents being claimed
• Social Security benefits (sent on form 1099-SSA)
• The amount received in Veterans disability, pension or survivor benefits
• Railroad retirement benefits (sent on form 1099-RRB)
• Statements of any earned income
• Statements of interest income

Experts will be available to assist senior citizens in filling out the 1040A tax form on Wednesday, October 1st from 9:30 until 12:30 p.m. at St. George Orthodox Church, 43816 Woodward Avenue in Bloomfield Hills and West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation, 4640 Walnut Lake Road in West Bloomfield.  A second session will be held on Friday, October 3rd from 9:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. at the Oakland County Health Division, 27725 Greenfield Road in Southfield and the Royal Oak Senior Center, 3500 Marais in Royal Oak.

Patterson says completing and filing the form will pave the way for individuals to receive their incentive checks.

Reservations are requested for this event to assist with scheduling. By calling this toll free number 877-850-6069 you will be assigned a date and specific time to reduce your wait. Walk-ins will be seen as time permits.

For media inquiries only contact Bob Dustman, Oakland County Media and Communications Officer, at (248) 858-1048 or dustmanb@oakgov.com.

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