Seniors, the government still owes millions of you some money. The Internal Revenue Service says not all qualifying retirees and veterans have taken advantage of the economic stimulus payment. While the rebate checks arrive automatically to those who file taxes yearly, those who haven’t had to file in the past need to make an effort to get their money.

And the deadline to do this is October 15, 2008.

In July, the IRS sent a second set of information packets to those who hadn’t filed their taxes. Included in the packet were instructions, a sample Form 1040A return showing the few lines that need to be completed, and a blank 1040A form. If you need help with the forms, you can call the IRS at (800) 829-1040.

How do you know if you’re eligible to receive a rebate? The IRS says you’re eligible if you have a valid Social Security number, can’t be claimed as a dependent on a tax return, and have either an income tax liability or “qualifying income” of at least $3,000. Qualifying income includes any combination of earned income and certain benefits from Social Security, Veterans Affairs, or Railroad Retirement. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not count as qualifying income for the stimulus payment.

The rebate check will not affect other federal benefits received, and it is not taxable. In addition, if you had already stopped filing yearly returns, this doesn’t mean you’ll have to start filing again. And it doesn’t mean you’ll owe taxes either.

One caveat (which is always true): Beware of telephone calls or emails claiming to be from the IRS and asking for your personal or financial information. If you receive one of these calls or emails, do not give out this information. The IRS does not call or email taxpayers asking for personal information.