If you haven't started doing your taxes and aren't sure if you're even getting a refund, H&R Block has a free calculator that shows what you're likely to get back.
1. Shake off some debt
A tax refund is a good opportunity to shake off some debt.
The best use of a tax refund is often the simplest: Pay down your credit cards, student loans or other bills.
The best return on your money is often found in debt repayment. Do the math! A typical credit card can have you paying out at least 15% in interest per year.
It might not be the most exciting idea for your tax windfall, but you’ll thank yourself later. Paying less interest and not worrying about your debt is a win-win!
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Read More2. Sleep on it
Take your refund and buy a new mattress. You probably need one.
Chances are you need a new bed, or maybe a new mattress. If the last time you replaced yours was a couple of presidents ago, you're due.
The National Sleep Foundation says you need a new mattress every seven to 10 years. We spend at least a third of our lives in bed, so it pays to invest in a comfortable spot to lay down your head.
The quality and affordability of mattresses have improved a lot in the last five years, thanks to increased competition. Mattresses can now be ordered online and sent to your door, but you may want to try them out in a showroom first.
3. Get ready for anything
Take your refund and start or beef up your emergency fund.
Having a major expense fall into your lap can be a nightmare. But 1 in 4 of us has no emergency savings.
If making monthly contributions to a rainy-day fund would be a struggle for you, a tax refund is a great way to jump-start a savings plan. You’ll thank yourself later.
Why stress over money when you can build a buffer? Just make sure to put the money into a savings account that’s available in a pinch and earning some interest while you wait.
Kiss your credit card debt goodbye
Millions of Americans are struggling to crawl out of debt in the face of record-high interest rates. A personal loan offers lower interest rates and fixed payments, making it a smart choice to consolidate high-interest credit card debt. It helps save money, simplifies payments, and accelerates debt payoff. Credible is a free online service that shows you the best lending options to pay off your credit card debt fast — and save a ton in interest.
Explore better rates4. Do some remodeling on your home
Using refund money to repaint or otherwise improve your home is a great way to improve your financial future.
Your home may be the largest financial asset you'll ever own, and it can effectively become a major source of retirement savings. Using refund money to improve your home is a great way to improve your financial future.
Adding energy-efficient features and beautifying the outside or inside of your house can give you more enjoyment now and boost the home's resale value down the road.
Investments in the functionality or curb appeal of a home can wind up being worth far more than the money spent. At the very least, you’ll live in a beautiful and comfortable home for years to come!
5. Do some remodeling on yourself
Make an investment in yourself and your future by spending some money on self-improvement.
Instead of blowing your refund on a new wardrobe or a fancy smartphone, consider making an investment in yourself and your future.
Spend some money on self-improvement: Take a class to learn a new skill or sign up for training to upgrade your professional credentials.
Using the money to better yourself might pay off in a better job, a bigger paycheck or a healthier you. So, the return on investing in yourself can be great.
6. Send the money off to work
Use your refund money to make money — by investing it.
A diligent investor in the financial markets might easily achieve a comfortable retirement with monthly contributions, efficient tax planning and professional advice. But many of us never take the time to start.
Compound interest is a powerful tool to save money and earn an income from your portfolio. Opening your first investment account with a tax refund is a great way to get a head start.
If you want to put money into stocks, avoid picking individual ones until you have at least $1 million. It’s much better to play the market using mutual funds and exchange-traded funds to spread your risk.
7. Give your windfall away
A tax refund can allow you to help a worthy cause.
Tax season is a good time to reflect on society and this grand experiment we call humanity. While it’s tempting to pocket your refund, it’s also a good opportunity to help a worthy cause.
Many organizations need funding to do their good work, and it often takes hundreds or thousands of small donations to make things happen.
Whether you give money to a friend in need or a local charity that supports a cause you love, your tax refund has the potential to do a lot of good.
8. Have fun! (You're allowed!)
Take a trip, go on a “staycation”, or treat yourself to a nice meal with your refund dollars.
Go ahead and live a little with your windfall! But before you hit the mall, think about better ways to spend the money, other than on stuff.
Do you really need more stuff? Seriously?
Experiences and the memories you create are usually more rewarding than purchases like clothing, jewelry and electronics. Throw a party, take a trip, or just go on a relaxing “staycation” close to home.
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