ARLINGTON, VA – According to a recent survey by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), one out of five U.S. households will spend at least a portion of their economic stimulus rebate check on consumer electronics, totaling some $5 billion in sales.

“Despite clear uncertainties in the macroeconomic environment, this new research coupled with shipment data for key categories like flat-panel TVs…suggests [that] technology remains essential to consumers. In fact, shipments for flat-panel TVs are up 30 percent in the first two months of the year, a phenomenal amount,” said CEA Economist Shawn DuBravac.

The survey reports that of the total percentage of those indicating that they would spend a portion of their rebate on consumer electronics, 53% said they would buy a computer, 39% will use the money for a new television, and 23% will purchase a new cell phone.

President Bush signed the $168 billion Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 on February 13. Depending on income levels, individuals will receive a $600 rebate check, $1,200 for married couples, with $300 per additional child. The Treasury Department is expected to mail out rebate checks between May and August of 2008.

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