Have you been dreaming about using your tax refund to buy that shiny new plasma TV? Don't do it, cautions the Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (VSCPA). You have better things to do with your money — and it is your money. While many people view their refund check as a gift from the government, nothing could be further from the truth.
The money was yours all along — you just gave the government an interest-free loan by allowing Uncle Sam to withhold too much money from your paycheck. So why not think of your refund check as a second chance to do something smart with your money?
1. Compromise
Okay, if you just can't resist using your tax refund for something fun, consider spending 80 percent wisely and splurging on 20 percent. For example, instead of blowing your entire refund on a week's vacation, plan for a long weekend trip or a special night out.
2. Destroy debt
One of the best ways you can use your tax refund is to pay down credit card debt. Not only will you reduce — or hopefully eliminate — your monthly credit card payments, but you can save money on the interest you would have paid. If you have several credit cards, pay off the one with the highest interest rate first, then work your way down.
3. Buy some peace of mind
Most financial experts recommend that you set aside at least six months of income in an emergency fund. Without an emergency fund, you could end up dipping into your investments or relying on credit cards to see you through a bout of unemployment or a wave of unanticipated expenses. Keep the money in a savings or money market account that you can easily access in an emergency.
4. Bring it home
If you're a homeowner, one of the best ways to spend your tax return is to invest it in maintaining or improving your home. A fresh coat of paint, an updated bathroom or some new landscaping not only increases the value of your home, but also improves your quality of life.
5. Get smart
How about using your refund to take your career to the next level? Sign up for a course and learn new skills. If you're thinking of changing jobs, attend a conference or a seminar where you can network with others in your field.
6. Fund your retirement
Consider using your refund to open or add to a traditional or Roth Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Both offer tax advantages and can help ensure a secure retirement. The contribution limit for 2008 is $5,000 or your taxable compensation for the year, whichever is less. Taxpayers who are ages 50 and older can contribute an extra $1,000.
If you’re one of those people who get a large refund year after year and you’re not contributing the maximum to your 401(k) plan, think about lowering your tax withholding for 2008 and using the extra money to bump up your retirement contributions.
7. Think tuition
If college education costs are in your future, use your refund to start or add to a 529 college savings plan. The tax-free status of withdrawals for qualifying education expenses was set to expire in 2010, but the Pension Protection Act of 2006 made the benefit permanent.
8. Do some good
Donate a portion of your refund to your favorite charity. Not only will you be helping someone in need, but you may earn a tax deduction for next year's return.
9. Get a jump on payments
Consider putting some money aside to pay for annual bills, such as insurance premiums and health club memberships that you tend to forget about until they come due.
10. Come up with a plan
A comprehensive financial plan is a great way to make your refund pay off. Make an appointment with a CPA who can help you plan your financial future.
Find more money management information and free financial resources by visiting the VSCPA’s consumer Web site at www.FinancialFitness.org.
The Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (VSCPA) is the leading professional association dedicated to enhancing the success of CPAs. Founded in 1909, the VSCPA has approximately 8,300 members who work in public accounting, industry, government and education. For more information, please visit the Press Room on the VSCPA Web site at www.vscpa.com, e-mail vscpa@vscpa.com or call (800) 733-8272. To search for a CPA in your geographic region, visit www.FinancialFitness.org and click on “Find a CPA.”
