Wednesday, April 2, 2008 by Alan S. Kopit, Legal Editor
Two things to remember about filing this year's tax return. First, you're not eligible for your "economic stimulus payment" (great Washington euphemism for the old "tax rebate") unless and until you file your return. So you have an extra incentive to file by April 15 -- taking an extension won't do the trick. Second, be sure to file even if you can't pay all of the tax you owe. The interest and penalties for failure to file are much higher than the interest and penalties if you file, but still owe some tax. Also beware that if you owe the government back taxes, your stimulus payment will be applied to your tax debt and you may not see it.
