Checks are not in the mail for 429 Anacortes residents who have not returned the paperwork to receive an economic stimulus payment this year, according to the Internal Revenue Service. But it’s not too late.

The 429 locals are among 5.2 million Americans, many of them senior citizens, who may be eligible for a stimulus check but have not filed a 2007 tax return, according to information provided by the IRS.

Along with rebates to those who normally file tax returns, the economic stimulus law provides for low-income seniors on Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, disabled veterans and veterans’ widows to count those benefits to qualify for the stimulus payment.

To help these people get their checks, the IRS is sending information packages to those who have not filed. The packages, mailed over a three-week period that started July 21, contain everything needed by a person who normally does not have a filing requirement, but who must file this year to receive an economic stimulus payment. There will be instructions, an example of a form 1040A return showing the few lines that need to be completed and a blank form 1040A.

The IRS contacted the city of Anacortes for help getting the word out. The city has a limited number of informational fliers on economic stimulus payments in the Finance Department.

In addition, representatives of the AARP TaxAide program will be at the Anacortes Senior Center from 9 a.m. to noon on the first Wednesday of each month through October to answer questions about this rebate and help people file. No appointments are needed, as each consultation won’t take long. Those with questions will be helped on a first come, first served basis. Bring proof of every family member’s Social Security number and income information.

The stimulus payment is not taxable. People must file by Oct. 15 to receive a payment in 2008. Those who do not file a tax return this year may still receive their stimulus payments by filing a 2008 tax return next spring, but the stimulus payment would be based on 2008 qualifying income.

For more information visit http://www.irs.gov or call (800) 829-0582 ext. 377.