You’ve worked hard all year. And now you find yourself receiving a tax refund. I, Billy Bad Score, urge you to go out and treat yourself!

In the midst of the heavy filing season, discovering that you’ll receive extra cash flow back from the IRS is a wonderful feeling. Me, I might take a trip to the mall and buy some new black jumpsuits that I don’t necessary need. Living in the moment and spending money carelessly hurts so good, doesn’t it?

Lately, I’ve grown frustrated. It seems you natural consumers out there are listening to the Good Score Guys more than me. New research sited on CNN Money reveals that since the start of this year, you’ve spent less and saved more. Personal spending rose a measly 1.6%. What gives? Consumer spending was up right before the recession began in 2007 to at 2.4%.

If you’re receiving a tax refund, great! I love guiding people down the blind alley of bad credit with their foolish spending. Here are some ways you can blow your tax refund if you want me hanging around your credit profile until next year:

• Get ahead of yourself – To those of you who pay a fee to get a refund anticipation loan because you need money instantly, I salute you. RAL borrowers, according to The Community Investment Network’s website receive short-term cash advances against their anticipated income tax refund. Didn’t receive as much refund as you anticipated? Then those loans you preconditioned are sure to rack up and lead you to me! It would bring me much pleasure if a refund application loan turns out to be a case you biting off more than you can chew.
• Don’t pay your debt down or off – Every dollar you pay toward your credit debt attributes to my demise—and makes you wealthier. Some people seem to think that you can earn 10% or more if you invest your tax refund—however, that’s not guaranteed. So go ahead – try your luck. I dare you.
• Use your refund to take on a major loan with reckless abandon – The Good Score Guys seem to think high scores don’t happen by jumping headlong into major investments like a house or a car. I love unnecessary purchases, but of course the 3-pack (who I’m sure have 6 packs—not that I’m envious or anything) think being spontaneous with your tax refund shouldn’t result in you getting in over your financial head.

With the influence from the Good Score Guys here at FreeScore, you’re sure to spend your tax refund responsibly.

Offering you full access to see your credit scores and reports from the 3 major credit bureaus, FreeScore gives you useful credit knowledge, including information of how paying taxes late can affect your score.  Just remember, making hasty purchases after receiving your tax will keep me lingering in your credit files.