Rebate redux
The $600 checks the government is sending out to stimulate the economy will arrive in bank accounts and mailboxes across the country soon. If you are going to spend yours, take advantage of retailers that are offering special discounts tied to the rebate checks. Click here to see when your check will be sent.
Ralphs and Albertsons will add $30, $60 or $120 to a gift card when you exchange your tax refund or economic stimulus check for a gift card. The bonus equals 10 percent of the amount you exchange. The offer starts Friday and lasts through July 31. One per household up to $1,200.
RadioShack gives a 10 percent discount on tabs of $50 or more when you use your stimulus check or tax rebate between May 4 and July 12. The balance will be put on a Vision Silver Prepaid MasterCard that can be used anywhere MasterCard is accepted.
Sears, Kmart, and Land's End offer a 10 percent bonus when you exchange your entire rebate check for gift cards. That means a $600 check nets gift cards worth $660. Bring in your check between May 14 and July 19 to get the deal.
Staples is offering no-interest on purchases over $499 with some exclusions when you use your Staples credit card. Valid April 21 through June 30, 2008. Mention code 31831. Read the fine print at here.
Restoration Hardware is offering $100 off a purchase of $750 or more through Wednesday. Get a voucher here to shop in stores or use code HEMAP804 online or over the phone. You can put off paying for a purchase of $750 for one year with no interest when you use your Restoration Hardware credit card.
If you plan to save your check...
Mike Gavin, manager of the Charles Schwab office in Pasadena, recommends paying
off high-interest credit card debt first.
"They absolutely have to pay those down or refinance that debt," Gavin said. The interest you are paying on overdue credit debt is likely higher than what you can earn elsewhere. Once you pay them off, be careful not to rack up credit card debt or you are back to square one, Gavin added.
Consider funding your retirement through an IRA or 401(k) with anything left over. Take advantage of the extra $1,000 you can contribute to your IRA for 2008 and max out the allowable limit of $5,000.
A third option is to start saving for college through a 529 account. Anyone can contribute regardless of tax bracket. The accounts grow tax deferred and have a greater tax advantage than earning interest through a regular savings account, which is taxable.
About The Bargain Hunter
Daily News staff writer Julia Scott loves to find bargains on everything from groceries to Gucci. Her tips will help keep your hard earned cash where it belongs - in your pocket.
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