Texas County seniors and many veterans will soon find a $250 check in the mail from the government, U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill said Monday.
As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), the federal government is providing America’s senior citizens with a little extra money in their pockets through a one-time increase in Social Security, veterans and retirement benefits.
Texas County residents who fall into the following categories should expect to receive a $250 check this month:
-Retirees, disabled individuals and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients receiving benefits from the Social Security Administration.
-Disabled veterans receiving benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
-Railroad retirement beneficiaries.
Payments have begun and will continue to be issued throughout May. Seniors do not need to do anything – the checks will be sent automatically.
Beneficiaries should note that the payment will be offset by any Making Work Pay credit for which the recipient qualifies. So if a person qualifies for both, the Making Work Pay tax credit will be reduced. If you think you fall into this category, visit the IRS’s Web site for additional information.
Individuals who were not eligible for Social Security, SSI, veterans or railroad retirement benefits at any time during November 2008, December 2008 or January 2009 are not eligible for the one-time payment.