AARP and NCOA Launch New Resource as Part of Stimulus Payment Education Campaign

Easy to understand materials and consumer education at heart of ongoing
efforts.

WASHINGTON, March 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The AARP Foundation and the
National Council on Aging (NCOA) today launched a user-friendly online tool to
simplify the economic stimulus payment application process for millions of
Americans who are not otherwise required to file income tax returns. The
online tool can be found at http://www.aarp.org/stimulus.

The online tool, developed with expertise from AARP Tax Aide (an AARP
Foundation tax assistance and preparation program offered in conjunction with
the Internal Revenue Service), is the latest effort in AARP's campaign to help
older Americans learn how to apply for stimulus payments and protect
themselves from fraud.

Earlier this year, AARP helped lead efforts in Washington, DC, to expand
stimulus eligibility to include approximately 20 million Americans who
primarily depend on Social Security, certain railroad retirement income or
veterans disability income.

"Having successfully advocated for the expansion of the stimulus package, we
recognize our responsibility in making the stimulus payment process as simple
as possible," said Luci de Haan, Acting State Director, AARP NY. "From day
one, AARP has been working to make sure people have the information and
resources they need to receive their stimulus payments."

The new online resource allows users to print out a completed economic
stimulus form after answering a few simple questions. This tool can also be
used by trusted loved ones and volunteers to help those in need without
internet access.

"The Stimulus Payment Tool developed jointly by AARP Tax Aide and NCOA's
BenefitsCheckUp(R) makes available in one place on the Internet, simple,
easy-to-understand instructions for low income seniors to apply for the
economic stimulus payment," said Stuart Spector, NCOA Senior Vice President.
"Coupled with the ability to complete and print the IRS 1040A form, with
personalized instructions on where to mail it, the Stimulus Payment Tool will
make it easy for filers, and their trusted intermediaries, family members and
caregivers, to take the necessary actions to get the stimulus payment they are
entitled to."

AARP staff and volunteers have been working with the IRS, Social Security
Administration, and other organizations to inform and equip those who are
eligible for the stimulus payments but are not otherwise required to file
income tax returns. Key tips for filers include:

-- Applications for the stimulus payments are not subject to the April 15th
tax filing deadline. The IRS is accepting stimulus payment forms until the
Fall, providing time for individuals to answer any questions and safely file
their stimulus applications.

-- Individuals should beware of stimulus payment scams. Scammers are calling
and emailing individuals asking for personal information, including Social
Security numbers and bank account information. The IRS never emails or calls
tax payers asking for personal information - individuals should not give
information to people posing as IRS representatives over the phone or through
email.

-- Resources are available for those who have questions or need help. AARP
offers a number of resources on its website including a set of Frequently
Asked Questions, printable easy-to-understand instructions for filling out a
stimulus application, and the new online tool. AARP Foundation's Tax Aide
volunteers are available online to answer questions throughout the year with
more complicated stimulus filings.

"We are encouraging friends, family and community organizations across the
nation to join the 32,000 volunteers at AARP Foundation's Tax Aide program who
are looking out for and helping older Americans securely receive their
stimulus payments," said de Haan. "Print out the instructions or use the
online tool - straightforward ways to help every person who is eligible for a
payment get one."

To learn more about how to apply for your stimulus payment and help others
apply, visit http://www.aarp.org/stimulus or http://www.aarp.org/taxaide.

About AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+
have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and
affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates
for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or
candidates. We produce AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for 50+
Americans and the world's largest-circulation magazine with over 33 million
readers; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for AARP's 39 million members
and Americans 50+; AARP Segunda Juventud, the only bilingual U.S. publication
dedicated exclusively to the 50+ Hispanic community; and our website,
AARP.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security,
protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from
thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all
50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

About AARP Foundation
The AARP Foundation is AARP's affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide
security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. Low-income
older workers receive the job training and placement they need to re-join the
workforce. Free tax preparation is provided for low- and moderate-income
individuals, with special attention to those 60 and older. The Foundation's
litigation staff protects the legal rights of older Americans in critical
health, long-term care, consumer and employment situations. Additional
programs provide information, education and services to ensure that people
over 50 lead lives of independence, dignity and purpose. Foundation programs
are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions and AARP. For more
information, visit http://www.aarpfoundation.org.

SOURCE AARP

Kristin Legere of AARP, +1-518-447-6723, klegere@aarp.org