Beginning in May, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will begin sending one-time economic stimulus payments to more than 130 million households across America. Most people who are eligible for a stimulus payment will receive it automatically if they file a 2007 federal income tax return.

If you don’t usually have to file a federal tax return, but want to get your stimulus payment, you could qualify for it if you have at least $3,000 in income from any combination of earned income, Social Security retirement or disability benefits, and certain veterans’ or railroad retirement benefits. You should file Form 1040A or 1040 with the IRS to get your stimulus payment. Form 1040A is a short form, which makes filing quick and easy. Visit www.irs.gov for details.

If you are only filing a return to receive your economic stimulus payment, Free File is a great option for you. All you need to do is follow the simple instructions provided by the software. It’s easy, and it’s free. Free File is located at www.irs.gov.

Be aware that identity thieves are already pushing scams involving the stimulus payments. At least one telephone scam is making the rounds using the proposed rebates as bait. The IRS is warning citizens of a new e-mail and telephone scam using the IRS name. To find out more go to www.irs.gov and click on "warning on identity theft scams."