AIKEN --- Hoping to get a piece of the federal government's $145 billion stimulus package? You had better file an income tax return to qualify for a rebate check.

Volunteers for the Internal Revenue Service have been helping low-income families file their tax returns for decades, but this year they are hoping to reach out to individuals who do not normally file returns.

"What we're trying to push right now is the stimulus program," said Tim Garrin, a volunteer from the IRS. "Many people have not filed an income tax return in quite some time, and they will need to file this year to be able to get these payments of $300, or if it's a couple, $600."

The rebate checks are part of a government effort to encourage spending and ward off a recession.

Individuals whose annual income is at least $3,000 from Social Security benefits, pensions, veterans' benefits or interest normally don't have to file a return, but if they want to see that extra money from the government they'll have to file.

"If they don't file a tax return this year they don't get that stimulus payment," Mr. Garrin said.

These individuals, or anyone just needing help filing, can get their tax return prepared free by IRS volunteers at H. Odell Weeks Activity Center on Whiskey Road. The service is available from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays until April 8.

Mr. Garrin said people should bring Social Security, pension or interest statements for 2007 with them.

Reach Michelle Guffey at (803) 648-1395 or michelle.guffey@augustachronicle.com.