Question: Is there still time to file for an economic stimulus check?

Answer: Time is running out. The deadline is Wednesday. A taxpayer qualifies if he has a Social Security number, cannot be claimed as a dependent on somebody else's tax return and has either an income tax liability or “;qualifying income”; of at least $3,000. Be sure to file a 2007 federal tax return even if you normally don't have to file one. Normally, certain veterans' payments are not subject to income tax. However, the economic stimulus law contains a special provision allowing recipients of certain veterans' benefits to count those benefits toward the qualifying income requirement of $3,000. For those who do not normally file a tax return, the IRS has prepared an eight-page informational package that includes instructions, a sample Form 1040A and a blank Form 1040A. Go to http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/k1040a3.pdf. If you do not have computer access, contact your nearest IRS office.

Q: What does VONAPP stand for?

A: VONAPP (Veterans On Line Applications) is the official U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Web site, which enables veterans to apply for compensation, pension, vocational rehabilitation, and education benefits. U.S. military veterans and some service members within six months of separation or retirement can apply for compensation, pension, and vocational rehabilitation benefits. U.S. military veterans, service members with two years of service, members of the Selected Reserve, and spouses/dependents of a “;service connected”; disabled or deceased veteran can apply for education benefits using VONAPP. It also has a link to VA Form 10-10EZ, application for health benefits. For more information go to http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/about_vonapp.asp.