4 Smart (But Still Fun) Investments You Can Make With Your 2018 Tax Return

It’s tax season! And while that may mean annoying trips to your accountant or trying to stumble your way through filing your own return online, it does typically mean one good thing. If you’ve played your cards right, you can almost always be guaranteed a tax return of some kind of amount, whether significant or not. Every little bit helps, right?

But, while you may be tempted to spend all your newfound dough on an awesome Caribbean getaway or those new shoes you’ve been eyeing up at Nordstrom’s, or even just a night out on the town with your girls (or guys), there are certain things you can do with your tax return that are smarter than others. Don’t worry, though, they’re still fun, and how often in life do you get something that’s both fun and the responsible thing to do? Not very often, so this is one instance where you’ll want to take advantage of the beautiful opportunity the universe is offering. So, without further ado, the 4 smart (but still fun) investments you can make with your 2018 tax return.

1. Pay Off Your Debt

So, yeah, that doesn’t seem so fun. But think about it. Really use your imagination here. You are spending a set amount of cash each and every month to pay for some sort of debt, whether it’s a car loan, student loan, credit card, whatever. If you pay it off now, that’s like extra money in your bank account not just once a year during tax season, but every single month of the year. Living debt-free (or at least partially debt-free) is the gift that keeps on giving! So instead of paying for your crappy car every month that you’re already tired of, you could be going on a shopping trip, or a weekend getaway or buying another round at the bar.

2. Invest in You

While you could play the stock market, which, you know, could make you rich or whatever, you could also invest in yourself, which is never a bad idea. Pay a little upfront to learn a skill that could further your profession, so that you make more money later on. Or even invest in learning a new hobby that you’ve always found interesting, but never had the time or funds to pursue. You’ll be investing in your future happiness. Learn how to cook, become a master sommelier, start a side gig cross stitching dirty lyrics onto pillow covers and selling them on Etsy. Heck, buy a dog. Go to a conference. Invest in your health with a gym membership or a bicycle.

3. Trick Out Your Crib

If you own your home, this could not only make your day-to-day life better and more enjoyable, but could also raise the value of said home. So pick out something pretty on HGTV or in a fancy decor magazine or off your fav Pinterest board and go with it. Hang those barn doors, install a clawfoot tub, recreate a Food Network-worthy kitchen, expand your walk-in closet, hang a pricey light fixture. As long as it’s upping the resale value of your home and it’s making you happier in the process, anything goes.

4. Help Someone Else

While getting something in return shouldn’t be the basis of your charitable choices, there are still plenty of honorable ways to help someone out, that rewards you in other ways in the end. For example, head to Kiva and lend money to a small business. The small business will pay you back, but you get the reward of knowing you helped someone’s dreams come true. Likewise, invest in something that catches your eye on Kickstarter. There are tons of different devices, products and services available on Kickstarter, seriously something for everyone. Find something you like, invest and you’ll be rewarded with a product sample or other fun gift.