provided you're prized...
how do YOU spend it?
:)

Or you could save it.

I do my absolute best to never get an IRS refund. The US government is a pretty poor savings account.

"I do my absolute best to never get an IRS refund. The US government is a pretty poor savings account."

+1


If you get a refund, invest it :)

The Gov't doesn't pay you interest on the money they held on to because you overpaid them. You're better off paying in less each pay period, owing them at the end of the year, and putting the money they would have paid you into an interest bearing account.

That said, I'd hold onto it for some second hand gear on the Gear Swap.

As the daughter of a tax accountant I disagree - here is why:
Most Americans blow at saving money. If it is there they will spend it weekly. And in most cases the interest on saving the money is nominal (don't flatter yourself folks, most accounts barely pay anything these days!). Unless you take the extra money each payday and actually invest it and know how to invest, it isn't doing much good.

A refund on the other hand gives people forced savings and often allows them to buy bigger ticket items or put away a big chunk of money.

And that can stimulate the economy......

As for me? Who knows. Probably onto more house remodeling I am sure. Now then...my REI Dividend is ALL about the gear :-D Wooo!

"Most Americans blow at saving money."

That's not a reason. That's a sorry excuse!

Not referring to you, Sarah, but to all those who can but won't save... relying on tax refunds to accumulate spending money is just 'unsmart' all around. Same as using store "lay away" plans.

Edited by ben2world on 02/23/2012 12:14:21 MST.

I know Ben.... I know. We are a mess (this country) for good reason........

I believe in saving and do it well. But I know of few who do like we do. We play the system when it benefits us.....