Want your stimulus payment? You need to file a tax return first. That goes for retirees and disabled veterans who don't normally have to file taxes.
In Minnesota alone, 64,000 people are potentially missing out on their checks, which were passed out to help boost the struggling economy. The number of Americans yet to file for their payments is 5.2 million nationwide.
So far, the IRS has issued 76.5 million payments worth $63.8 billion to taxpayers young and old; the agency expects to issue 124 million payments by year's end.
Recipients receive as much as $600, or $1,200 for married couples filing jointly, plus $300 per child younger than 17. To receive a check, taxpayers must file a return by October 15.
The IRS reminds Americans that filing a tax return to receive the stimulus payment will not affect current federal benefits and does not mean they will need to file in the future. Also, the payment is not taxable.
For more information on who qualifies and how to file, visit www.irs.gov. There are also several Taxpayer Assistance Centers that can help retirees and veterans file for their stimulus payment. Find a center near you at www.irs.gov or by calling 1-800-829-1040.
KARA MCGUIRE
