Don't let your tax refund go to waste!

Use your tax refund as an opportunity to accomplish some important financial goals.  Make the MOST of your tax refund with these five suggestions:

1.  Build Your Emergency Fund

Unexpected expenses are part of life. Having an emergency fund can help you avoid going into debt.  If you are just starting your emergency fund and have other debt, then work on building your emergency fund up to $1,000, then focus on paying off the high interest debt.

2. Pay Off High Interest Debt

Use your refund to pay down on any high interest loans, such as credit cards.  This will reduce the amount of interest you pay each month and reduce your debt more quickly.

3. Invest

Put your refund to work for your future.  Add to your retirement fund, set-up a college savings account or consider opening a Family Development Account, which, if eligible, can match your savings.

4. Service Your Car

If you've been putting off costly repairs, or simply an oil change and tune-up, now is the time.  Maybe a new set of tires are in order.  A well-maintained car with properly inflated tires burns less gas and saves you money in the long run.

5. Adjust Your Withholding

If you received a significant refund, consider adjusting your withholding so you don't end up giving the government an interest free loan during the upcoming year. 

February 20 - 27 is 

America Saves Week!