Sensible Things To Do With Your Tax Refund Money

If you get extra money or a windfall such as a tax refund, a bonus, or an inheritance, you might be tempted to splurge on things you don’t need.

Here are some smart ways to spend this money that will give you long-term benefits.

• Pay off debt
• Put it in a high interest savings account
• Contribute extra to your super
• Consider investing
• Get financial advice

Pay off debt

If you put your extra money towards paying off your debts you’ll pay less interest and save money. You could use it to pay your credit card bill, your mortgage or a personal loan.

 

Put it in a high interest savings account

If you put the money in a high interest savings account it will grow with the power of compound interest.

For example, if you put a $2,000 tax refund into a high interest savings account that earns 6% interest, in 5 years time you’ll have $2,676.

To find out more see savings accounts.

Making extra contributions to your super can really boost the amount of money you have to retire on.

If you earn less than $61,920, the government will match your after-tax super contributions. For more information on how to make extra super payments see contributing extra to super.

Changes to super legislation for 2012/2013 have been proposed but not yet passed. The co-contribution matching rate is proposed to be reduced from 100% to 50% and the higher threshold from $61,920 to $46,920. This webpage will be updated when the law changes.

The super vs mortgage calculator can help you work out where you should be putting your spare money.

Super vs mortgage calculator

Consider investing

Investing your windfall will really make your money go further.

If you’re new to investing, start with investing basics.

If you would prefer to rely on professionals who are skilled in making investment decisions, a managed fund could be right for you. For more information see managed funds.

Get financial advice

For large amounts of money, such as from an inheritance or a redundancy payment, you should get financial advice. An adviser will be able to help you work out a strategy to make the most of your money.

While it’s always nice to spend extra money on luxuries, think through your options and see if your windfall can give your finances a real boost.