Steve Says

According to the National Retail Federation 41% of consumers getting a stimulus check plan on going out and spending it.  That's a pretty hefty helping of the 168 billion dollars being forked over to stimulate the economy. 

In the race to earn your business retailers are adding more money to your stimulus check either by topping it off with extra cash or waiving check cashing fees.

Here are a few on my radar.

What deals do you know of?  Are you planning on spending your check or paying off debt?

KROGER- Customers WITH OR WITHOUT a stimulus check can come into a Kroger store and buy $300, $600, or $1200 gift cards and Kroger will add 10% to the value for FREE!  That's up to $120 in free groceries.  Not a bad deal considering.. you have to eat!

WAL*MART/SAM'S CLUB- offering free check cashing services - they are waiving the $3 fee.  Sam's Club is also offering a gift membership of $40 on certain purchases.

RADIO SHACK- Get 10% off a purchase of $50 or more, OR if you're not looking to make a big purchase you can come in and buy something small (I recommend the batteries for $3.99).  The balance of your check will be put on a prepaid Master Card for free (there is usually a $9.95 fee).  You can then use the card to get cash or to buy stuff wherever Master Card is accepted.

ALBERTSON'S- You need to have a check in hand to take advantage of 10% added to the value of your gift card that you purchase with your stimulus check.

SEARS- 10% bonus when you turn your stimulus check into a Sears Gift Card .

STAPLES AND HOME DEPOT- offering special sales to entice consumers- no direct benefit to stimulus check holders.

 As more of these checks come rolling out- more incentives are sure to roll in.  Consumers can also pair their money with other offers.  This Memorial Day weekend is the Texas tax break on Energy Star appliances.  Shoppers will get a break from state and local sales and use taxes on select energy efficient products.  The 2008 Energy Star tax holiday begins at 12:01am on Saturday, May 24th and end at 11:59 pm on Monday, May 26th.

The products qualifying for the exemption are:

-Air conditioners priced under $6,000 (room and central units)

-clothes washers

-ceiling fans

-dehumidifiers

-dishwashers

-light bulbs (incandescent and fluorescent)

-programmable thermostats

-refrigerators priced under $2,000

Qualifying products will display the Energy Star logo- there is no limit on how many items you can purchase.  An exemption certificate is not required.  Internet and layaway plans are also eligible for the tax break.  Full details are at http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/taxpubs/tx98_836