Taxing question

The average tax refund went up $200 for early filers to $2436, a 9 percent increase from last year [Click to read story].

The nation’s tax collectors estimate that, for the first time, more than half the tax returns filed by individual and family tax returns will arrive electronically.

I thankfully leave that headache to Susan. After having done taxes for a nonprofit one year, I never want to see a form again. If we ever see enough income to warrant it, we’ll hire an accountant.

We did manage to eek out a refund. And we’ve got big plans for it around home repair.

That’s just one option for your refund.

Some “slam-dunk” uses for it from CNNMoney are:

• Fund your IRA
• Fund a 529 (college fund)
• Open a CD
• Add to an emergency fund
• Reduce your credit card debt

Of course, CNNMoney would make most of these about saving. I had my eye on a new electronic gizmo until Susan punched me back to reality, her subtle way of keeping out of the red and in the black. At least my eye is black even though our finances aren’t.

But what do you use your refund money (if you get any) for?

Take a fun poll and let’s bring CNNMoney back to reality. Click here to vote.

Reminder: Taxes are due at midnight!