Wisdom in spending your tax return

Pay day is here, thanks to the IRS! While the average tax refund decreased by 8.7 percent compared to last year, some people still got a large chunk of change – an average tax refund of $1,949.

Consider spending your refund wisely, especially as tax laws change.

– Start an emergency fund or pay off your highest-interest debt. Don’t put it in your checking account.

– Invest or put it toward something you’ve been saving for. Don’t buy something you don’t need.

– Pay it forward by donating it or give yourself a small reward – aim for 5-10 percent total.

– Robin Rectenwald, The Pittsburgh 100