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Home > Smart Spending > Archives > 2009 > March > 16 > Entry
A taxing decision: How to spend your refund
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Two words: tax refund.
One question: Whatcha doing with yours?
“Blow it on yourself. You deserve it,” the devil on your right shoulder whispers in one ear.
“Don’t listen to the pitch-forked one,” murmurs the angel on your right shoulder. “Do the right thing.”
That would be to pay off credit card debt. Catch up on bills. Kick some into an IRA. Invest in career or personal development.
This advice comes from various websites, such as, along with. But it’s really common sense.
OK, not every last cent must be diverted wisely. Carve out a few bucks for a nice meal out or a weekend trip. But the bulk should help right your financial ship.
What is your strategy with tax refunds? Are you deciding with your head? Or your heart?
One more thing. Next year, adjust the amount withheld from your paycheck to make sure you don’t receive a refund.
Through February, according to the Internal Revenue Service, the average refund check was $2,869. That money could have been in your pocket last year.
Wouldn’t you rather have had it then than now?
I know, I know. A refund check is like found money. But it’s not someone else’s. It’s yours.
Two closing words on tax refunds: Bad idea.
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