More than 150,000 have yet to claim stimulus checks

The IRS is reminding taxpayers that as of mid-June more than 150,000 Massachusetts residents had not claimed their economic stimulus checks.With only six weeks left before the final deadline, the IRS is collaborating with Massachusetts community action agencies that will help those taxpayers file the necessary documents.The tax assistance is free to retirees and veterans from now through the Oct. 15 filing deadline. Taxpayers who have not filed can make an appointment through the nearest community action agency.A few agencies are located on the North Shore. Among them: North Shore Community Action Program, Inc., 98 Main St., in Peabody, at 978-531-0767; the Tri-City Community Action Program, Inc., 110 Pleasant St. in Malden, at 781-322-4125; Community Action Program for Inter-City, Inc., 100 Everett Ave., Chelsea, at 617-884-6130; and Action, Inc, 24 Elm St. in Gloucester, at 978-283-7874.IRS spokesman Peggy Riley from the Boston office said residents who have not filed can still receive a payment up to $300, $600 for married couples, and an additional $300 for each eligible child under 17 years old.To qualify, applicants must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income (any combination of earned income, nontaxable combat pay, certain payments from Social Security, SSI does not qualify, the VA and Railroad Retirement).Individuals without a Social Security number or those who can be claimed as a dependent do not qualify for a stimulus payment. Participants should bring a valid social security card and valid Massachusetts license or State Identification Card, including a spouse and child’s card; a W-2 and other wage statements, including Social Security, VA, and Railroad benefits. Bank account information will also be needed for direct deposit requests.Those unable to visit one of the listed agencies should still apply for their stimulus payment by filing a federal income tax Form 1040A by Oct. 15. The form and instructions are available on the IRS Web site, www.irs.gov or at local IRS offices throughout the state.The IRS economic stimulus payment helpline can be reached at 866-234-2942.