    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [April 25, 2008]
    [Pages 578-579]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks on the National Economy
    April 25, 2008

        Good morning. It's obvious our economy is in a slowdown. But
    fortunately, we recognized the signs early and took action. I signed an
    economic growth package that will provide tax rebates to millions of
    American families and workers to boost consumer spending.
        On Monday, the Treasury Department will begin delivering the first
    of these tax rebates by direct deposit. During the first week alone,
    nearly 7.7 million Americans will receive their tax rebates
    electronically. Then on May 9, the IRS will begin mailing checks to
    millions more across America.
        By this summer, the Treasury Department expects to have sent rebates
    to about 130 million American households. These rebates will provide
    eligible Americans with payments of up to $600 a person, $1,200 for
    couples, and $300 per child.
        If you've already filed your income tax return, your rebate is on
    the way. Even if you don't owe any income taxes, you may still be
    eligible for a check, but you

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    need to file a form with the IRS. And it's not too late to do so. Now,
    you can find out information as to how to proceed by calling your local
    IRS office, or go to the IRS web site.
        We want to make sure everyone who's eligible for a check gets one on
    a timely basis. This money is going to help Americans offset the high
    prices we're seeing at the gas pump, at the grocery store. And it will
    also give our economy a boost to help us pull out of this economic
    slowdown.
        I'm pleased that the Treasury Department has worked quickly to get
    the money into the hands of the American people. Starting Monday, the
    effects of the stimulus will begin to reach millions of households
    across our country.
        Thank you very much.

    Note: The President spoke at 9:16 a.m. on the South Grounds at the White
    House.