Got Your Tax Refund? Splurge AND Enjoy!

An average American taxpayer gets refunded approximately $3,116 per year. That is rather reasonable.

Okay, you may have more or less. But one thing is certain – you deserve to treat yourself sometimes.

Treats can take various shapes and forms. They combine wants and needs. And they’re also known as rewards that boost your brain happy hormone levels!

We get that your financial advisor may not think this is the smartest use of your tax bucks. That is fine! Because you don’t have to go black or white. I always spend a little, then use the rest of the money towards something very necessary.

However you consider splitting your tax refund, we totally support that! After all, it only happens once a year.

If you’re still reading, you may be in for a little treat. We know you’ve worked hard. Pick your favorite treats from the list and, most importantly, relax and enjoy!

Depending on your needs and wants, we’ve compiled a ton of ways you can use that cash up! What do you think?

We can see how you’re inclined to use that tax refund to pay off your credit loans. But in the meantime, be on the lookout for the following exciting ideas.

Practical

1. Home/car repairs and maintenance

Are there any home or car emergencies that need to be looked at? You could use your tax refund for peace of mind and fixing your valuables. Or perhaps it’s high time you finally painted that accent wall you’ve been thinking about!

Fixes and maintenance are practical needs and wants. You will benefit from these in the long run.

2. Upgrade home appliances

Pretty straightforward. If you need it, go for it. Your 10-year-old fridge doesn’t define you!

Always wanted to keep up with the latest kitchen technology? If you don’t already own an airfryer, how are you even eating those Hot Pockets? You get the gist.

Personal

3. Enroll in a course or certification 

It’s always a nice idea to boost your skills and qualifications by investing in yourself and your training. You might as well see this one as both practical and personal.

4. Self efficiency

We all strive for our work performance and self-care. These often need more attention from time to time. If this speaks to you, you can update your work wardrobe, upgrade your work devices, get a gym membership, book a massage session or a yoga lesson.

This is what I call investing in yourself ✨

On the same note, we both know you seriously need to work on that back pain with a few exercises. It’ll be fun to move on your new yoga mat!

Experiences

5. Go on a cruise, family resort, or vacation

If we’re on the same page, making memories is one of your top priorities. Plan a getaway with or without family and unwind. Who would’ve thought your tax dollars could help you do that?

Right now, cruises are hot, with prices starting at $500/person for a 4-day cruise in the Caribbean.

What I did with my family, though, was go to Disneyland. We went all out, flying down to Florida and wearing our matchy family vacay t-shirts.

6. Go to a concert, family festival, exhibition, or show

Experiences can’t compete with expenses. One is an investment, the other a liability. This can be such a small but powerful way of enjoying a part of your tax refund.

Well, actually, did you know that your general health and well-being must come first in the process? Breathe better at home with the affordable Amazon’s Choice Air Purifier.

Future

7. Open a side business

We’ve got something in the bag for those who are more future-oriented, too. Maybe you’re already dreaming of starting a side hustle out of your lifelong passion. Maybe it can start small and save for rainy days.

Generally, it’d be respectable to educate yourself. You can start learning one day at a time with How to Start a Business.

8. Put it to a college fund

But if you’re not feeling the whole entrepreneur mindset, you can always help your loved ones grow instead. Consider budgeting this into your tax refund splurge if you have kids or grandkids.

Meaningful and spiritual

Spiritual needs are a true thing! If you’d like to nourish this part of your soul, you can always opt for

9. Making a donation to a charity or church

10. Sponsoring a cause or child in need 

Bonus tip: Before you go ahead, we suggest setting a clear plan of how much you’re going to spend. This way, you’re not paying anything out of pocket at all! Look for ideas that fit your budget, say under $500, $500 to $2000, and $2000+. Can you do that?

Thoughtful and Fun

11. New hobby (supplies, equipment)

After a long year of paying tax, you might want to get back in touch with your inner child. Maybe you haven’t had enough time, but it’s never too late to stay on top of things that truly matter.

Not sure where to start? We recommend you start small, treating yourself to an arts session and supplies.

12. Subscription services

Call this a hidden hack for anyone reading this. Especially when managing a busy family life, paying for services like streaming, tutoring, and meal prepping can do wonders.

Treat your children or teens with Netflix here.

13. Buy gifts for your loved ones

This is your lucky strike if you’ve got anniversaries, celebrations, or birthdays coming up. If you’re a relationship person that likes to stay connected, this tip will be quite cheap but deeply rewarding.

Treat your loved ones to a handy and meaningful gift. A super practical personalized canvas tote bag for ladies and a next-level shaver kit for men.

All in all

For loyal readers and fellow frugal Americans, we’ve added some essential steps to do before launching yourself into purchases.

Yes, sure, it can be useful! But it can also be irresponsible, so get this.

• Know your amount. Estimate if you need to
• Know your priorities. Write a list (musts, shoulds, and then coulds)
• Break it into simple percentages (20% to treat yourself)
• Review or adjust. Rest assured that things don’t always go as planned. It is okay to review and adjust with a little flexibility.

Did you find this useful? Continue reading 10 Items You Should Never Buy Cheap.