Rebate checks not much of a stimulus

ROCHESTER, N.Y. While consumers and businesses alike hoped the government-issued stimulus checks would provide a much needed boost in the economy, the reality was very different. According to a Harris Poll, most Americans used their checks to pay down their non-mortgage debt.

According to the poll, 36% said they used the check to pay off bills or credit cards, while 29% said they put it toward their cash savings. One in five (21%) spent the check on items they wanted to buy.

Although some of the rebate money did go to retailers, it probably wasn't as much as hoped for, and the nation's economy remains a top concern going into the presidential election.