Pay off debt.

Use part of your refund to reduce or eliminate your debt. Pay down balances with the highest interest rates first to lower your debt as much as possible.

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Save for retirement.

Consider depositing some of your refund check into a traditional or Roth IRA. You can contribute a total of $6,000 in 2019 (up from $5,500 in 2018), plus deposit an extra $1,000 if you are at least 50 years old. Remember you have until April 15 to make an IRA contribution for 2018. While income limits apply, these contributions are possible even if you have already filed your tax return.

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Save for a home.

If you dream of owning a home, consider adding part of your refund to a down payment fund.

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Invest in yourself.

Sometimes the best investment isn't financial, it's personal. A course of study or conference that improves your skills or knowledge could be the best use of your money.

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Give to charity.

Donating to a charity helps others and gives you a potential deduction for your next tax return.

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Have some fun!

Finally, consider saving some of your refund to have a little fun. When done in conjunction with the ideas mentioned here, you can find satisfaction in taking a balanced approach with your refund.