PLATTSBURGH -- With the rising price of gas and fuel, Cathy Caron's tax-rebate check will be a big help with everyday expenses.

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"I can't wait. I'm really excited about it," the Morrisonville mom said while shopping at Champlain Centre mall.

"I'm going to catch up on bills, try to get out of debt and take my kids shopping."

Like many people around the tri-county area, Caron said increased costs for food and fuel have had a big impact on her finances the last few months.

"It's been really hard lately. This will really help," she said during an afternoon shopping trip with her teenage son.

"It's like winning a mini lottery."

Since one of her friends already received a rebate check, Caron said she's checking her bank account every day to see if it's there.

The federal government is sending $600 to individuals, $1,200 to married couples and $300 per child to those who qualify and filed a 2007 federal tax return.

Jim Maxwell of Massena said he almost forgot the rebate was coming. He said he plans to leave it in the bank, as does his girlfriend, Kathleen McArdel of West Chazy.

David Scully of Plattsburgh thinks he'll do the same.

"I'll probably just put it away," he said as he spent the afternoon with his 3-year-old son, Jaiden.

Bob Noble of Morrisonville has yet to see his check but said he expects it will go toward his regular bills.

Other shoppers the Press-Republican spoke with said they were already spending extra cash in anticipation of the checks, while some said they may give it away to someone who's in more of a financial crunch.

Lonny and Roseann Bombard of Bombay said they're not sure if they qualify for the rebate but said they expect most people will spend it on gas or simply to splurge on extras.