Last night I attended a mini-college reunion at Foxwoods Casino. During dinner the topic of conversation turned to the government’s Economic Stimulus Checks and how everyone spent their refund. A few described purchases they’d made. And not entirely surprising - most brought their stimulus money with them to the casino (my refund went not to gambling but rather to buy a last minute ticket for Jerry Seinfeld at the MGM Grand). This morning I stumbled across a web site that let’s visitors document what they’ve done with their stimulus check - as well as view the purchases made by others. It’s a fun place to see what others have blown their money on done with their check as well as to add your own thoughts. At least some of the submissions will be compiled into a book (submit your submission to their site by June 24, 2008 to be considered for the book)

Link: HowISpentMyStimulus.com
Link: Economic Stimulus Payment Calculator
Link: New York Magazine Article

United States Economic Stimulus Payments are now due to arrive starting on Monday (calculate the amount you may receive here and find out WHEN your check will arrive here). Leave it to the Government to reward poor fiscal management by providing free money with which to practice more poor fiscal management. Retail stores are getting in on this concept and many such as Sears, Staples, SuperValue and Kroger are offering additional bonus amounts if you bring your entire check to them and exchange it for one of their gift cards. PS - How funny would it be if mortgage companies got into the act and offered lower rates and even shadier terms in exchange for your stimulus check…

Link: Fatwallet Economic Stimulus Deals
Link: IRS Official Economic Stimulus Payment Calculator
Link: IRS Chart Showing When Your Check Will Arrive