If you’re really on top of things and heed the identity theft-prevention advice to file your tax returns as early as possible, you may have already received and spent your tax refund.  Good for you!  We’re still waiting for our refund, because newborn (and, let’s be honest, because of the same procrastination that hits every tax season).  Of course, not everyone gets a refund.  Last year, we were in that camp and had to pay the IRS — not a fun surprise.  But the average federal tax refund is $2,895, and for many Americans who don’t get annual or quarterly bonuses from their employers, it’s their only unbudgeted monetary windfall.

No matter your current situation, a couple thousand dollars can go pretty far in helping you to achieve your financial goals.  As I mentioned last month, I’m making an effort to buy fewer things, and I don’t want to watch my tax refund dollars evaporate in a shopping spree, spent on things that will just further fill my house, only to be discarded in a future decluttering effort.  If you’re in the same boat and are looking for some more intentional uses for your hard-earned money, here are a few ideas.  Read more