SmallBusinessNewz

The good news: tax rebate checks are coming.  The bad news: the majority of small business owners seem to think they won't do much good.

A couple can expect $1,200 at most, it seems, and even if people run straight out to the stores, these rebates might not repair the economy or save any businesses.  A further complication is the fact that most people probably won't run out to the stores; the recession isn't exactly a secret, and mortgage payments are going to come first.

Which brings us to what CNNMoney.com reported: "PNC Economic Outlook found that 63% of business owners expect to see 'little or no benefit' from the government's tax rebate checks, which are coming in May."

Want more not-good news?  "Only 6% were optimistic about the economy over the next six months, and 19% said they expect to see profits shrink."

Different businesses are bound to be affected in different ways, of course, even beyond fluctuations that may favor some geographic regions.  Still, it seems safest to believe the May rebates won't lead to any dramatic upswing, and to continue preparing for a lengthier recession.