Getting a generous tax refund makes all the hassle of doing taxes worth it, but if you are not careful your refund money can disappear faster than a cute pair of shoes at a clearance sale. Make the most of your tax refund with these tips from consumer and money-saving expert for Kinoli Inc. Andrea Woroch.
1. Adjust Your Withholdings
If you consistently receive a large refund, it's a sign that you're withholding too much from your paycheck.The money you get in one lump sum every April could be saved, invested or used to pay down debt throughout the year, so update your W4 and strive to "break even" with the IRS. Use the IRS Withholding Calculator to help you determine how much to withhold.
2. Pay Down Debt
Paying down existing debt like student loans or credit card balances may not seem like much fun now, but doing so will lead you to guilt-free fun in the future. In addition to improving your credit score, you'll have more money each month once minimum payments are behind you instead of throwing away money on interest rates.
3. Invest in Your Home
Now is the time to tackle those home improvement projects you've been putting off. Such improvements will ultimately lead to an increase in your home's value so it's a wiser investment. Extend the value of your refund by purchasing discount gift cards to Home Depot from sites like GiftCardGranny.com, where you can save an average of 15 percent instantly.
4. Donate to Charity
Remember, what goes around comes around. That's why I recommend donating part or all of your tax refund. It is actually a tax write-off, so you can deduct your donation for next year's taxes. Find a list of eligible organizations within the IRS Publication 78 and be sure to itemize your deductions.
5. Open a Roth IRA
Roth IRAs are all the rage these days, and for good reason. In addition to being more flexible than other retirement plans relative to investments, Roth IRAs grant tax breaks when money is withdrawn during retirement and won't penalize you for withdrawing early either. Not convinced? Read this article from Kiplinger on why it's a smart investment plan.
6. Improve Yourself
Whether you brush up on your networking skills or learn the basics of social media, continuing education is the key to better job prospects. Look for courses at your community college or find out when and where the next regional conference in your industry is happening.
7. Fund Your Emergency Fund
If the contents of your savings account is comparable to that of your childhood piggy bank, consider using your refund to raise it to a more adult-worthy level. Travel snafus, car accidents and medical emergencies are inherently unpredictable, and having the peace of mind to pay for the unexpected expense during such stressful situations is priceless. For more information, check out "Why You Absolutely Need an Emergency Fund" from Investopedia.
8. Stretch Your Spending
If you've been saving up for a big purchase or simply looking to use the tax return to supplement your income in the short term, consider how to stretch those dollars. Purchase discount gift cards for various stores to reduce everyday costs and use coupons to trim expenses whenever possible.
For tips and strategies for making the most of your money year round read The Cheap Diva's Guide to Frugal and Fabulous Living: How to Shop Smart, Look Your Best, Decorate with Style, and Have Fun for Less Money! available on amazon.com as a Kindle book for under $5.00 and as a paperback as well.
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Posted by: Indiantag | February 19, 2012 at 11:44 PM