According to the IRS the average Tax refund last year was around $3,000, so if you're expecting a big check this year the temptation is great to just splurge and blow the money. But there is a better and smarter way to spend that extra money. Don't waste it on things that you don't need and on impulse buys, many Taxpayers simply take their tax return check and go on a shopping spree. Instead invest the money in something that will give you a better return and reward.

If you are going to buy something at least buy something that pays you back, you can spend it on a course to make you more marketable in the job market, or on software or a computer that might make you more productive. Some people also use the money as a down payment on a car, which creates more debt for them. A better idea is to do the opposite, use that refund to payoff credit card debt or to pay extra principal on your car or home loan.

If you want to spend the money on a vacation, spend the money on a place to will make memories and will be worth the money. Go on a trip to a place you've never been like Disney World or Las Vegas. You can also help someone out with the money by donating it to a needy cause or charity.

Now this may seem strange, but if you don't want a big tax refund check, you can adjust your W4's so you get more take home pay and stop lending so much money to Uncle Sam interest free all year. But remember if you do bring more money home use it to retire debt or increase your savings.