Tax refund savings tips 

Get the most value from your refund

Tax time is one of the few opportunities when American households receive a sizable amount of money – especially if they take advantage of the earned-income tax credit. While it may be tempting to spend that money on wants vs. needs, saving your tax refund can protect you from needing to turn to payday loans or high-cost credit later in the year, and can serve as the foundation to grow your savings.

Here are three ways to get the most value from your tax refund next year:

Pay down your debt 

Use your refund for some much needed debt relief. Pay off your credit card balance. Alternatively, you can apply your refund toward other debts, like a car loan or a home equity loan.

Why not give yourself an even bigger return on your tax refund by putting the money into a savings account? It's always helpful to have a savings account to draw from when a major car repair bill, medical emergency or other unexpected expense comes along. That way, you don't have to borrow money and add to your debt load.

Trying to save for a house or car down payment? Hope to contribute to your child's college tuition? Consider applying your tax refund toward these goals. If you don't yet have a list of short-term and long-term financial goals, put one together. You'll be more conscientious about how you spend your refund or any other extra money that comes your way.

Remember, you work hard for your money and you deserve to enjoy a healthy financial lifestyle. Put some thought into how you use your tax refund. Making smart financial decisions is not always easy, but it will definitely benefit you and your family over the long term. 

Need help finding ways to save? Take the America Saves pledge to make a commitment to yourself to save, and receive emails and/or text messages to keep you motivated.

This information was provided by America Saves in an article written by Katie Bryan, America Saves Communications Director