ATLANTA — Many consumers are calling the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Aging Services inquiring about the economic stimulus payment that President Bush signed into law in February to stimulate the economy.

To receive the economic stimulus rebate, an individual must file an income tax return for 2007. DAS is providing information online and by telephone at (404) 657-5319. The information will educate older adults, caregivers, and professionals in elder care on what the payment is, who is eligible, what forms to complete, when the forms are due, and what scams to watch for.

To access the information, visit DAS’ Web site at http://aging.dhr.georgia.gov, click on Publications in the left-hand column, and then click on ERA Publications, which will also be on the left.

It is important to have the facts to avoid scams and schemes. DAS is advising older adults that if someone calls or emails them claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service and asks for a Social Security, bank account or credit card number, it is a scam.

The IRS never calls, emails, or comes to anyone’s home asking for Social Security numbers or bank account information. To report a scam to the IRS, call 1-800-829-1040. To report unsolicited emails claiming to be from IRS, forward the message to phishing@irs.gov.

DAS is offering presentations statewide on how to avoid becoming a victim of scams. To schedule a free presentation in your area, call DAS’ elder rights team leader at (404) 657-9589.

“As a resource to older and at-risk adults, we want to provide as much information to them as possible so they can make informed decisions on issues affecting their lives,” said Maria Greene, director of the Division of Aging Services.

For more information on services available to older adults in Georgia, call the Division of Aging Services toll-free at 1-866-55-Aging (1-866-552-4464).