Lately, I have been hearing and seeing ads for big screen TVs and high-end mattresses.  These marketers are specifically targeting consumers' tax refunds. 

I can tell you that I am getting a refund, but as much as I would like the Sony or the Tempur-Pedic, I have other fish to fry.  I will be paying down debt, making a few necessity purchases (auto repairs), and setting aside some cash for emergencies.

The sad thing is many people will fall for this advertising-- if only people stopped and thought about their spending.  Here is a recap of posts on spending decisions:

• Just Because You Can-- Should You?
• Guest Post: Spending Our Money (Part III)-- Excuses of a Spendthrift
• Guest Post: Spending Our Money (Part II)-- Satisfying Our Wants
• Guest Post: Spending Our Money (Part I)-- Meeting Our Needs
• A Simple Approach to Purchase Decisions
• Another Look: What If We Had Less, But Better?
• Purchase Decisions: A Recap

Just because it comes as a windfall, should we blow it like a drunken gambler?  A tax refund is a return of money you earned-- you worked for it, it isn't found money.  Some smart folks I know treat tax refunds like savings-- a very smart and frugal move.

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Related posts:
Do You Buy Features or Benefits?
Quality and Value
The Engagement Ring . . .
Sometimes You Have to Spend Some Money to Save Money . . .
5 Reasons to Lower Your Expenses
What is Your Cost Structure?
Busting Your Monthly Nut