What's the best way to get the most out of Bush's 2008 tax rebate?

While the "rebate" IS an advance payment of a new one-time credit on 2008 tax returns it is initially based upon your 2007 tax return, as filed. There are two protections built in to it. First off, if you are paid too much this year you will NOT have to repay the difference when you file in 2009. And if you are paid less than you're actually entitled to as determined by your 2008 tax return you'll be paid the difference when you file that return in 2009.