If you have a tax refund coming your way this tax season, it‘s important to put that money to good use. However, there are a lot of options when it comes to spending it or saving it. It may be tempting to blow the extra paycheck all at once, but a tax refund is a great way to set yourself up for a brighter financial future. Check out these ways you can navigate that pile of cash wisely.
- Pay off high-interest credit card debt
Using your tax refund money to pay off high-interest credit card debt is a giant leap toward financial freedom. Making only the minimum monthly payments on your credit cards can cost you hundreds to thousands of dollars in interest over time. By laying down the principal, you‘ll be one step closer to being debt-free.
- Deposit it into a savings account
If you have no outstanding balances, debts, or bills to pay off, consider depositing your extra money directly into a savings account. Savings accounts are safe and easy, and the interest you earn by keeping money in one will add up over time. Plus, you never know when an unexpected expense is going to pop up, and having quick access to money can prevent you from experiencing financial stress. Click to see NDBT’s savings account options!
- Build or contribute to an emergency fund
If you don‘t have an emergency fund set up, now is a great time to build one. An emergency fund is one of the best ways you can create a financial buffer that will help keep you afloat in a time of need without having to rely on credit cards or high-interest loans. Most experts recommend having enough money in your emergency fund to cover at least three to six months‘ worth of living expenses.
- Add it to your retirement fund
By committing your tax refund dollars to your retirement fund, you are on the path to a stable future with a comfortable retirement. Deposit the money into your 401k established through your employer or any other tax-advantaged investment account you may have set up, like an IRA. Learn more here!
- Splurge on your short or long-term goals
While it‘s a great idea to put your tax refund money aside to improve your overall financial situation, don‘t neglect your own wants and needs. Allow yourself to use a portion of your tax return to invest in your goals. It can be spent on anything from purchasing a gym membership to putting money toward starting a business you‘ve always dreamed of.
A tax refund isn‘t necessarily something you can count on each year so if you have money coming your way, it‘s important to make the most of it. Spending or saving your tax refund responsibly is an investment that can help you build a secure financial future.
