The best ways to spend a tax refund will vary among individuals.
• Spend on smart resources: Use refund money to buy tools that will save you money. For example, subscribe to , $26; buy a warehouse-club membership, about $50.
• Improve yourself: Take a class, buy self-help books, or use refund money for other personal improvements, especially those that give you job skills.
• Go green: Insulation, fluorescent light bulbs, water-faucet aerators, storm doors and programmable thermostats are all good energy-efficiency upgrades that can pay for themselves in short order.
• Spend it on your future: Building an emergency fund or contributing to a Roth IRA and college funds are good ideas, but so is stashing some cash to pay for this summer’s vacation to avoid using your credit card.
