A “First of its Kind” PFML Plan launches in New Hampshire
Beginning in December 2022, employers can start enrolling in New Hampshire's new voluntary Paid Family and Medical Leave plan for employers and employees of all types of businesses.
Tuesday marked the first day Americans began filing for their 2016 tax refunds. What should you do after turning in those W-2’s? While in the end, it’s your money and up to you, here is a list of smart ways to handle your newly-acquired dollars.
Most of us have some form of debt, whether it be from student loans or credit cards. Monthly payments are great and help chip away at the total– but slowly. If you come into some extra money – i.e. a tax refund – paying down your debt may be a good long-term investment.
According to MarketWatch, approximately 62% of Americans are one paycheck away from poverty. For those living paycheck to paycheck, something as standard as car repairs can potentially put them on the street, or at the very least, in financial danger. That’s why creating an emergency savings account is always a good idea. If you’re receiving close to (or more than) the average tax refund, that’s a great start.
Another devastating statistic when it comes to saving money features retirement. Employee Benefit Research Institute discovered only 22% of American workers feel confident they’ll have enough money for retirement. How comfortable do you feel about your own retirement now? Don’t forget the ever-climbing cost of living. Consider putting some or all of your tax refund into your 401(k) or similar fund.
Dreaming of post-graduate school? Wanting a completely different degree? How about an MBA? All these things can actually help you further your career, and ultimately lead to more money.
If your kitchen or bathroom is severely outdated, using your tax refund check to redo them may be a good idea. Special home projects like this will actually help increase the value of your home, giving it a higher price when it comes time to sell, if you plan on doing so.
It’s not a pleasant thought, but something like a death in the family can lead to financial suffering and hardship. Life insurance policies are created to lift the burden of these situations. A sizable tax refund could make a difference.
Sometimes we put off things we need in order to deal with other matters. It could be a new washer to replace one that’s constantly on the fritz, dental work to ease a perpetual tooth ache, or a down payment on a new car to replace your 1997 Toyota Altima. No matter the case, your tax refund could be your saving grace.
Helping out your favorite non-profit not only makes you feel good, but it has huge societal benefits. In some cases, it can be a tax deduction!
Ultimately, what you do with your refund is 100% your decision. If you’ve been dreaming of buying an electric guitar or visiting Prague, do it.