Tax season can be a time of year that many look forward to, if you are expecting a large refund. Similar to the feeling of winning the lottery, you are provided a windfall of money that wasn’t anticipated. The normal human response is to spend this newly ‘found money’, however a goal-based financial plan will have a greater impact on your financial growth. Here are a few options to switch it up this year and have your refund work.

Take care of your emergency fund

One of the keys to financial stability is having an emergency fund with at least 3-6 months of living expenses. This is essential because it can prevent you sinking from a financial disaster. If you haven’t already started your fund, get a head start with your return, or if you’ve been dipping into your fund for additional cash, replenish what you’ve used and have peace of mind knowing that you have enough to withstand turbulent times.

Pay off your debt

Debt can have a crippling effect on your financial goals. Using your refund could help jump start you to a debt free life! Eliminating debt can be a difficult task to do all at once so we recommend prioritizing how you pay down your debt. Focus on getting rid of the small amounts first, then work your way up to the larger amounts.

Invest in your retirement

The golden rule of retirement is to save 15% of your income. If you’ve been putting off getting started or have fallen behind, your tax refund is the perfect opportunity to build up this important life goal. Whether it is through your employer or opening your own IRA account, everything helps.

Invest in your future

Once you have the other areas covered, you can begin to think about those long-term dreams. Maybe you want to further your education or start a new business venture. Investing in yourself to increase your knowledge can provide value and turn your interests into income. Another way to help your family could include setting up an UGMA/UTMA account or college plan for your children.

If you’d like to further discuss these options or other opportunities on how to use your tax refunds; we’d be happy to set up a free consultation. Give us a call or set up an appointment online through our website.

ABOUT SGROI FINANCIAL

Sgroi Financial is a full service, independent financial planning firm proudly serving the Western New York area since 1971. We offer services that will help you achieve your financial goals including retirement planning, investment management, estate planning, college planning and insurance. We help individuals, families, retirees, working adults, young adults and business owners.