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Economic Stimulus Package 2008

Greetings All! 

Starting in May 2008 the Federal Government will begin sending out checks for the long awaited economic stimulus package to the almost 130 million eligible households.  This economic package will provide checks of between $300-$600 dollars to a person depending on their tax eligibility.  While anyone who files a tax return will receive these checks, there remains about 20 million people who are eligible and don’t normally file tax returns.  This is especially true for seniors who receive Social Security, Veterans Affairs, or certain other benefits, more information can be found using the IRS Administration Procedures.  

You’re eligible if you have a valid Social Security Number (SSN), can’t be claimed as a dependent on a tax return and have either an income tax liability or “qualifying income” of at least $3,000. Qualifying income includes any combination of earned income and certain benefits from Social Security, Veterans Affairs or Railroad Retirement.

The IRS recommends filing your return by April 15th (5 days left!) to receive a stimulus check soon.  If you are filing for the sole purpose of receiving the check or have filed for a six-month extension then October 15th is the deadline for this year.  If you haven’t yet filed for this year, try one of the many free online services such as the one that is provided by Turbotax.  To find out what your return will be visit the IRS website and use their Economic Stimulus Package Calculator.  

For further questions and information visit theIRS FAQ section.  

Hello world!

Welcome to the new HRSentry blog!  Started in 2003, HRSentry provides an in-depth, online human resource management and compliance service.  In todays complicated business world keeping on top of an organizations HR needs is a full-time job that many companies cant, or don’t want to pay for.  This results in the morphing of another employee to take care of these delicate issues.  HRSentry provides busy HR specialists and those new to the field with a tool to access sample policies, training programs, and best practice standards all in an effort to reduce stress and avoid costly fines.

The idea to start this blog came from the need to have a place where as a company, we can interact with other HR professionals, provide current information on the ever-changing regulations, and address human resource issues in the news.  I believe that companies who manage effective human resource programs, from training to payroll to discipline/rewards, see the benefits in their bottom line through improved retention, reduced costs, and better morale.  With all this in mind, I hope to facilitate open discussions on the importance of addressing these issues before being hit by fines or lawsuits.  Feel free to suggest any topics or just throw in your own two cents, happy surfing!