Deadline to get rebate check nears

Oct. 15 is the deadline to submit 2007 tax returns to receive the federal government's economic stimulus payments. About 6,700 El Paso County residents have not yet applied for about $2.1 million in stimulus payments, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

Many are low-income seniors and people with disabilities, who are not otherwise required to file a tax return but need to this year in order to receive a stimulus check.

Pikes Peak United Way's free, 2-1-1 referral hot line is assisting callers who need more information on the stimulus program or want to find free tax preparation sites.

The hot line, accessed by dialing 211, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The service also assists people in need of housing, food, clothing and other emergency services.