Thousands haven't filed for tax rebate

ANCHORAGE - About 10,000 retirees and disabled veterans in Alaska haven't filed for their this year's tax rebate from the federal government.

Leita Bruneau, of the state Senior and Disabilities Services, said it's "staggering" that so many people have not filed for the government payout.

Individuals can get up to $600 for individuals and $1,200 for married couples.

The deadline for applying is Oct. 15.

The IRS plans to send a letter this summer to remind older adults about the rebate, dubbed the "economic stimulus payment."

There are about 4,000 potential filers in Anchorage, 1,000 in Mat-Su and 1,000 in the Kenai Peninsula.

In Anchorage, retirees and disabled veterans can get tax preparation help at the AARP Information Center at Northway Mall on Tuesdays between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

They can also get assistance from the local IRS office.