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DOR > About Us > Resources > Tax Talk Blog > Special edition – Low-income elderly credit must be claimed by June 30, 2009 Special edition – Low-income elderly credit must be claimed by June 30, 2009

June 11, 2009

Well, the dog days of summer are pretty much here. Thoughts turn to ice-cold lemonade, outdoor concerts and baseball games. Running through sprinklers is always a good time, and napping on a hot, languorous Saturday afternoon is a prime way to relax.

And for some, thoughts turn to Indiana’s refundable credit for low-income senior citizens – as the deadline to claim that credit is just around the corner.

In fact, this credit must be claimed by June 30, 2009.

Here’s how it works. Basically, if someone is age 65 or older, lived in Indiana for at least six months during 2008 and has taxable income of less than $10,000, then he or she may be eligible for a Unified Tax Credit for the Elderly. While singles may qualify for a credit up to $100, those married who file jointly may get up to $140.

Now if the eligible senior has already filed a 2008 state income tax return, then the credit has probably already been claimed. Look at line 26 on his or her Form IT-40 just to be sure. If the credit should have been taken and wasn’t, make sure to file a corrected, or amended return by June 30, 2009.

But, if you know a senior citizen who doesn’t file a state tax return because his or her income is so low, you might want to do some investigating on his or her behalf. Get Form SC-40, Unified Tax Credit for the Elderly, for details. If the senior is eligible for a credit (refund), make sure the form is completed, signed and postmarked no later than June 30, 2009.

This is the time of year where most of us try to kick back a bit. Maybe have a swim, or a family barbecue. The nice thing about filling out the Form SC-40 is it only takes about 10 minutes to complete, freeing up your time for fun activities. Just try to keep the barbeque sauce stains down to a minimum.