By Elyse Miller, News Channel 3

Government stimulus checks have made their way into the pockets of most Americans, helping pay off bills, boost savings and encourage spending. With the slow economy, many are struggling to just make ends meet let alone buy gifts.

"This Father's Day I am spending much less than in previous years," says Wendy Harris.

Ray Barnett says thanks to his stimulus check he was able to splurge this Father's Day. He bought tickets to the U.S. Open for himself and his dad. A pricey gift purchased by Uncle Sam.

"I love my dad and we wanted to spend that time together," says Barnett.

Erin Chaney says fueling up for the drive to visit her dad is expensive enough, leaving her with little cash to spare for a present this year.

"We need to be more budget conscious on what we get for him this year," says Chaney.

Electronics, gadgets and barbeque sets are always popular gifts for dads, but some say free gifts are even better for dad and your wallet.

"I got homemade breakfast and homemade cards from the kids," says Matt Biscotti. "If I get to sleep past 7 o'clock that's the biggest Father's Day gift these days."

Chaney says, luckily most dad's enjoy the simple, cheap things.

"With dad, I can just take him out to a bbq, but with mom things are different," says Chaney.

Most agree that one thing stays the same year after year, no matter how the economy is doing. Moms always get more on Mother's Day, than dads get on Father's Day.

"There are so many fun trinkets that they market towards moms and women are easier to shop for," says Harris.

In fact, reports show that while Father's Day spending was close to $9.9 billion this year,  that's still $5.9 billion less than what mom's got this Mother's Day.