Over 130 million Americans are counting down the days until their economic stimulus payments start arriving in the mail and in their bank accounts. The IRS is actually running ahead of schedule!

We found out on Friday that the checks could start going out as soon as Monday! If you have direct deposit, then you'll get your money sooner!

"We will start a bit earlier. We're a little bit ahead of schedule, so we will start right on Monday with direct deposits," Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said.

According to the IRS website, "To receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of income and file a 2007 federal tax return. IRS will take care of the rest. Eligible people will receive up to $600 ($1,200 for married couples), and parents will receive an additional $300 for each eligible child younger than 17."

The Treasury had planned to begin tax rebate payments in early May, but one week earlier is better for everyone!

Happy spending! Buy something fun!!