The Economic Stimulus Rebate

[uforgot]

If, as bmccasland says, it is an advance like last time, then all it means is that we are getting our tax refunds back a few months early, but I guess it makes them look like political heroes just in time for the election. Last time, most people did not understand this little catch, and when they went to have their taxes figured, SURPRISE!!! I do my own taxes and understood this last time, and there actually is a place where they ask the amount of your refund, but my principal argued with me. Said it was just a "gift". He was one of the ones whose taxes were held up because he figured it incorrectly as another poster mentioned.

So, in January 2009, my son on the USS Eisenhower will be shipped back to the middle east (yeah, he has already been told) and I will get $600 less on my tax refund. Guess how I'm voting????

[Mr. Bloom]

I don't recall it being as you describe last time...and I don't think it's as you fear this time

I will get $600 less on my tax refund.

But, keep in mind: The use of the word refund is misleading. You are either "over withheld" (this is when you get money back) or "under withheld" (this is when you owe money).

Based on your situation (income, deductions, etc), your tax is what it is. This "stimulus package" is effectively a retroactive reduction of last year's tax rates (I think))

Now, to your concern: what if, because of gov't spending, they need to raise taxes this year (meaning you're "under withheld" when filing for '08)...then that's a different issue entirely...but I don't think they're giving you something now and intending to take it back next year.