Money Matters: Key Insights into Tax Refunds and Financial Priorities

A woman in a white dress appears frustrated while talking on the phone with her financial planner, standing in front of a wall adorned with text about taxes and Straight Talk Wireless.

(BPT) – Tax season can be a stressful and challenging time for many Americans. In fact, according to the second-annual “Straight Talk Wireless™ Tax Stress Index,” 1 in 5 people want to throw their phone due to frustration over taxes. That’s not all Straight Talk uncovered. Below are three key findings from Straight Talk’s annual […]

Making the Most of Your Tax Refund

tax refund

With tax season upon us, millions of Americans are expecting sizable refunds.  But there’s no consensus on the best ways to put that money to work.  I stopped into PIX 11 in New York City to share some tips and strategies for maximizing the extra cash. I kicked off the segment with my top priority for refund […]

How Will You Spend Your Tax Refund Check?

A figurine dressed as Uncle Sam holds a sign that reads "BIG TAX REFUND!!!".

 Once again, most Americans expect to get a tax refund check, and more than a third of them plan to spend some or all of it, according to Capital One Bank’s annual Taxes and Savings Survey. But this is one year in which spending your refund check wisely – or foolishly – could have long-lasting ramifications that linger throughout 2013 […]

When Will I Get My Tax Refund If Someone Stole My Social Security Number?

A woman with hoop earrings looks intently into an open, empty mailbox, outdoors, possibly awaiting her tax refund.

Q: Someone filed taxes with my social security number, I contacted the authorities! Now how long for me to receive my tax money? A: I’m sorry to hear about someone stealing your social security number and using it to file taxes. Unfortunately, it may take a while — probably at least several weeks, if not […]

The 5 Best Ways to Put Your Tax Refund Check to Good Use

tax refund

The IRS says the average tax refund check in 2012 tops $3,000. Whether you’re expecting a really big tax refund like that, or a just a couple hundred dollars back from the government this year, be sure you make some wise financial decisions about that incoming cash. It’s easy to just splurge on something you’ve […]

Can I Get an Income Tax Refund If I’m Making Payments on Federal Taxes Owed?

A person pulls out an empty pocket from their black pants while standing outside, perhaps pondering the federal taxes owed.

Even though most American taxpayers wind up getting a tax refund from the federal government, some taxpayers still owe the Internal Revenue Service money and will not get any type of refund until they clear up their balance and pay off any federal taxes owed. If you’re wondering if you will get a tax refund when […]

Will I Lose My Tax Refund If I Declare Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Several US dollar bills, including denominations of $5 and $100, placed inside a metal drainpipe, suggesting a tax refund being wasted or discarded.

Question: I owe $1400.00 to the IRS and am making payments. My 2010 tax return is expected to be $1800.00. I understand that taxes owed can be paid in Chapter 13 but if the tax return comes after the Chapter 13 is confirmed will they take just the $1400.00 owed or my whole return? Answer: […]

Should I Use My Tax Refund Check to Pay Off All of My Credit Card Debt?

Stacks of hundred-dollar bills with the word "REFUND" in large red letters on top, signifying a generous tax refund.

Question: One of my readers wanted to know whether or not they should use their tax money to pay off all of their debt, or perhaps some of their debt and put the other half in savings. Answer: Basically, I think it’s not a good idea to use an income‑tax refund check exclusively to pay […]

What is the Best Way to Spend My Tax Refund?

tax refund

Q: I want to use my tax refund money wisely this year so I can build a strong foundation for me and my two little girls. I have not been very smart with my past money choices. How can I make my money work for me this time? A: Congratulations for wanting to improve not […]