That means this spring, Ill receive my biggest tax return ever.
I remember hearing my parents earmark their tax returns each year, usually for home renovations.
I was always astounded byhow muchthey were getting back.
For most of my 20s, I was either a barista or an aspiring writer.
Those dont pay well, ergo, I didnt pay much into or receive much in returnfromtaxes.
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This year, I expect my tax refund check to be around $3,000.
Thats a relatively sizable windfall.
Heres what Im thinking of doing with my tax refund…
1.
A few hundred dollars toward each of those will go a long way.
Plus, itll let me get started on a payment plan.
But it still wont be free.
Ill have to pay an illustrator and an editor.
I should earn the money back quickly through sales.
After that, I can put the profits back into my savings!
Those all come with significant costs for equipment and software.
With our windfall, he can buy the camera lens thats been on his wish list.
Planning My Vacations for the Year
No, my tax return wont pay for an entire years travel.
Ive got places to go!
But its a good start.
My next vacation Puerto Rico!
That makes now a perfect time to start looking!
Thats going to takesome clever budgeting.
Opening an IRA
Ive been smart enough since starting this job to contribute to my 401(k).
BecauseThe Penny Hoarder matches 4%, I contribute that much every paycheck to ensure I get that benefit.
But I know I could be doing more to save for retirement.
Getting a Month Ahead on Rent
Before I had this job, rent was an endless headache.
My silly need to sleep indoors ate away about half my income most months.
With unstable freelance income, I used to dread the first of the month.
Now, I earn enough to foot the bill.
But I want to do more than keep up.
I want to get ahead.
Thats a simple way to keep my peace of mind, just in case times get tough again.
Taking a Class
Ill be 31 this year.
I also know it can help me earn more money.
Ill look into writing workshops at nearby colleges and our local arts center.
Maybe Ill take an online course to learn a new skill, like Excel or Photoshop.
Never hurts to be well-rounded!
Your Turn: How will you spend your tax refund check this year?
Disclosure: What would Abe do?
Probably pat us on the back for placing affiliate links in this post.
Thanks for helping us fill The Penny Hoarders beer fridge!
Dana Sitar (@danasitar) is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Ask one of these companies to help…
