[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 16 (Monday, April 28, 2008)]
[Page 595]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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 9th, 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 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.