What Can You Do With a Tax Refund?

If you’re lucky enough to be getting a tax refund this year, careful planning could help you do a lot.

Pare debt: Make a credit card payment, more than the usual monthly payment. Pay off part of a student loan.

Pay bills: Pay part of your property tax bill. Ante up for school supplies and wardrobes.

Boost savings: Contribute now to your IRA (if you have earned income); don’t wait until the tax-filing deadline. Add it to your sunny-day fund for future recreation.

Have fun: Enjoy a long weekend at a restful site. Enroll in a class to learn a skill you’ve been curious about.

Do good: Improve your home with fresh paint in a neglected room. Donate to a good cause; get a receipt so you can take the charitable deduction if you itemize deductions on your tax return.