Millions of Americans should be a little happier today after checking their bank accounts. The IRS and US Government have approved the early release of the Economic Stimulus Checks. NBC 38’s Maria Jones has the story.

By weeks end more than 500 million Americans can expect a few extra dollars in their bank accounts, but that also comes with higher fuel costs and paying higher prices to feed their families. The Government hopes the early release of the funds will help stimulate the economy which has been in a slump. “I think it will, and I was delighted when the government opened it up for the elderly,” Says Senior Tax Advisor, Betty Parker. So, who exactly qualifies for the checks? Parker adds, “Everyone qualifies for the stimulus checks, If they made at least 3-thousand dollars, that can be in disability, VA disability, or social security disability or social security.”What are you planning to do with your check? Some want to take a nice vacation, others say they will pay off bills and some say, they are saving for a rainy day. I asked a few Columbus residents about their plans? “With my rebate check, I will put that towards my education, and try to put a down payment on me a car,” Columbus Resident Mary Frazier stated. Steve Johnson told News 38, “Take it put it back in the economy, pay off some bills hopefully it don’t occur again.”

And, Rob stated, “Me and my wife is moving, and we gone buy a new furniture set. Understand that’s what were trying to get there.” With the price of fuel at an all time high, here in Muscogee County a gallon of gasoline will average you 3-dollars and 60 cents a gallon, most consumers say they’ll use the money just to get by….for WLTZ NBC 38, I’m Maria Jones.

And just in case you have not applied for your stimulus check, you have until the end of the year to file.

Single Filers; qualify for up to 600-dollars and couples up to 1200 dollars and for each child you could receive a 300-dollar rebate. You can log on to www.irs.gov for more information.