For many of us, spring flowers also bring that long-awaited tax refund shower. While taxes may seem like just another necessary (and boring) civic duty, they can really make a difference in helping you reach your financial goals. Like a generous birthday check, tax refunds are a small financial windfall. When we leverage them to our advantage we can create real change and lasting results. If your refund could be better spent in any of these places it's time to let go and let save!

Consumer debt

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The average American household carries over $16,000 in credit card debt. Debt is stressful, and you should be one of the first things you throw any unexpected in come towards.

If you're thinking your refund won't even make a dent in debt, it actually could mean thousands of dollars in interest savings and months off your repayment. Expedite the process with your refund and get one step closer to the financial freedom you deserve.

Student loans

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Many graduates leave college with $37,000 in student loans. This number doesn't even account for the interest loans accrue over the course of your education and their repayment. In some cases interest can even end up costing more than the loan itself. Throwing your tax refund at one of your student loans can help you save big in the long run and sleep a little better each night.

Emergency fund

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Unless you can see the future, you need an emergency fund. Setting aside three to six months of living expenses means you'll be able to handle anything life throws at you. The truth is that in the event of an emergency, (big or small) the last thing you want to do is worry about is having money to cover it all. Setting aside money now means you'll have a solution later!

Retirement

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Just because retirement is years away doesn't mean you don't need to plan for it! With banking interest being next to nil, your retirement account is one the best places to set aside money. If your company matches 401k contributions or you have an IRA to max out, investing your refund could amount to a much bigger return later on!

Savings account

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Tax refunds can make you feel like you won the lottery. Blowing your cash on an impulse buy isn't worth it. Instead, set aside money for a much-needed vacation or special event. Everyone can agree it's the experiences we really remember!

When it comes to refunds don't be reckless. By skipping the short term you'll be able to invest in what really matters!