WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Akaka, chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, urged veterans, seniors and others who still have not claimed their economic stimulus checks to do so today.

Because many Americans receiving veterans' benefits or Social Security income are not required to regularly file taxes, some still have not filed the paperwork necessary to receive their stimulus check this year, Akaka said.

"Seniors, veterans and others who do not normally file a tax return must do so now to receive their stimulus check. After October 15 the benefit will be gone forever," said Akaka.

The deadline to file for stimulus checks is today.

In June, the IRS found that more than one-third (35 percent) of those receiving veterans' benefits or Social Security had not filed a tax return to receive their stimulus checks. Individuals can be eligible for $300, married couples $600. Those who owe no tax will not be penalized for filing after April 15. Only a standard 1040 form is required to file.