Alpha Consumer

Checks in the Mail

By Kimberly Palmer

Posted: April 28, 2008

Tax rebate checks are now on their way to consumers, earlier than had been expected. Have you decided how to spend the money? A survey by TNS Retail Forward found that consumers are split on what they will do with it (more than one answer was accepted). Around one third will use it to pay bills, some 30 percent will put the money into savings, and about one quarter will put it toward everyday expenses such as food and gas. Only 1 in 5 shoppers will use it to buy something special, like a new television.

The market research firm says that will be enough to help retailers, bringing them a windfall of about $42 billion in sales. That would double third-quarter growth to 6 percent, TNS calculates.

That's good news for those in the retail business, but for the rest of us, the numbers in our own bank accounts are the more important ones. That's why so many consumers are choosing to pay off debt or boost savings instead of going for a one-time splurge.

So, what will you do with your check?

rebate for what?

With gas prices at an all time high - who doe sthe government think they are fooling? This money will be used for the gas tank. There won't be any left for anything else.

I'd rather not have a rebate and have lower gas prices instead. The savings overall would be much higher and the economy would do better. People are staying home more and spending the same - internet spending has increased since the gas hike because people can't afford to start up the hummers and such they bought when money was plentiful and image was everything. Stupid people.

Kristy Van Amerongen of IL @ May 15, 2008 20:48:23 PM

My Rebate

I declared "Personal Bankruptcy" in 2007 due to credit card interest rates at 32%. Attorneys fees were ~$1200.00, so the "Single Male" check for $600.00 pays me back ~50.00%.

I plan to buy a quality self propelled lawn mower ~$300.00.

Robert of FL @ May 06, 2008 22:20:59 PM

check in the mail

Mine will go to the dentist :-(

Linda of FL @ May 02, 2008 22:53:09 PM

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Alpha Consumer

Alpha Consumer

Kimberly Palmer, senior editor for U.S. News & World Report, writes about how to save money, avoid scams, manage debt, and be a savvy shopper. Send your personal finance questions to her for expert money advice.


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