Why You Shouldn’t Celebrate Your Tax Refund (And What to Do Instead)

Getting a big tax refund might feel like winning the financial lottery—but spoiler alert: it’s not free money, it’s a sign you’ve been giving the IRS an interest-free loan all year. In this episode, I’m breaking down the financial reality behind your tax refund and showing you how to flip the script for long-term money power.

We’ll talk about why owing taxes isn’t always a bad thing, how to adjust your withholdings the smart way, and what to do with that extra cash in your paycheck (hint: it’s time to put your money to work). You’ll walk away with practical strategies to pay less in taxes, avoid those painful surprises in April, and finally take control of your tax season like a boss.

Whether you’ve been counting on that refund or dreading your tax bill, this episode will change the way you think about the IRS—and your own money habits—for good.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why tax refunds aren’t “bonus” money

How to adjust your W-4 to keep more cash throughout the year

What to do if you owe taxes—and how to avoid panic

Strategies to maximize tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and HSAs

How to use your tax return data to break even next year

Where to put your “found money” so it builds wealth instead of disappearing

Love what you're hearing? Be sure to rate and review the show. Also, don't keep us a secret, share this episode with a friend! Want to have even more fun?! Follow Shari on Instagram at @everyonestalkinmoney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices