The IRS would like to remind taxpayers that the October 15 deadline to file a 2007 income tax return and to receive an economic stimulus payment this year is fast approaching. This is the deadline for the estimated 4.3 million retirees and disabled veterans who may be eligible to receive a stimulus payment but who normally do not file a tax return. October 15 is also the deadline for the approximately 10 million people who earlier this year received extensions to file their 2007 income tax return.

"Don't let the economic stimulus payment pass you by," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. "If you want the payment this year, you should file by October 15. We recognize that there may be older Americans and disabled veterans who still have not filed for their stimulus payment. If you know of a friend, neighbor or family members who may be in that situation, please give them a hand if they need it."

The IRS says it has yet to hear from an estimated 4.2 million people who receive certain Social Security benefits and 178,000 who receive certain Veterans Affairs benefits. The agency twice has sent this group letters that enclosed a Form 1040A, a sample tax form and instructions for sending the tax return to the IRS. If these instructions have been misplaced, the fastest way to obtain a Package 1040A-3 is to go to IRS.gov or to local IRS offices. There are more than 400 local offices nationwide where people can get assistance in preparing the return as well. A return also can be prepared and submitted for free through Free File which is available at IRS.gov.

People must file a tax return in order to receive an economic stimulus payment even if they normally are not required to file a return.

Those who already have filed a 2007 tax return but who have not yet received an economic stimulus payment can check on the status of their payment by going to "Where's My Economic Stimulus Payment?" on the IRS.gov website.

You can also call 1-866-234-2942 and, after selecting English or Spanish language, press 2 to check on the status of the stimulus payment. You will need your Social Security Number (the one listed first on the 2007 return), filing status (single, married, etc.) and the number of exemptions claimed on the return.