Tax season is here, and so are tax returns. If you filed income taxes, you might be waiting for that check in the mail, thinking about what to buy. I hate to burst your bubble but tax refunds aren’t gifts so much as money you’ve lent to the federal government over the last year, interest-free. Here’s what to do with the refund you’re awaiting, and how to keep that money in your paycheck (and pocket) next year.
According to the IRS, nearly 78 million people got federal tax refunds in 2009 averaging $2,705. Lots of people think of their refunds as a bonus and even adjust their W4 forms to make sure they get one. Remembe