Why Aren’t People Spending Their Tax Refunds?
Economists, politicians and people in general like to discuss the nation’s economy and where it stands at any given moment. There are many different points that are touched on and several aspects that are used as evidence to make important points. However, one indicator of the economy’s health that can never really be argued is consumer spending.
When spending is up the economy improves, as does the nation’s overall outlook. However, when spending is down, the economy slows and the outlook gets darker. To that end, what does it say about the economy that a lot of people are putting their 2015 tax refunds in the bank, instead of splurging on frills? It means consumers are still exercising caution and taking a wait-and-see approach.
According to the numbers, even though the average tax refund has been up 0.7 percent in 2015, about half of all taxpayers said they planned to save at least some of their refund money this year. That means they are going to be spending less. In fact, that percentage is as high as it’s been since the National Retail Association started conducting its survey 12 years ago.
Many other consumers, almost 40 percent, also said they are planning to pay off some debt when they get their refund check this year. In a separate survey by BankRate.com only 3 percent said they planned to spend all of their refund and 67 percent said they were going to use it to pay off debt.
So, while the news is good that taxpayers are getting a little more back this year, the news for the economy might not be as promising At any rate, with more money being returned to consumers, at some point it should make it back in to the economy. That means even though the boost might not come now, it could still come later.
Chris Kowalik: Simplifying Retirement Education
In this episode of American Dreams, we sit down with Chris Kowalik, founder and CEO of ProFeds, to discuss her inspiring journey from serving as a Marine Corps Arabic linguist to becoming a leader in retirement education for federal employees. Chris shares her insights on simplifying complex government benefits, empowering federal workers to make informed…
Happy Holidays 2024!
Happy Holidays 2024! As the holiday season approaches, on behalf of Alan Olsen, we at GROCO, Legacy Builders, and the American Dreams show want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to you—our valued friends, clients, partners, and subscribers. This time of year offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the moments that…
Dr. Kal Mentak: Eliminating Preventable Blindness
Dr. Kal Mentak: Eliminating Preventable Blindness This week we sit down with the Dr. Khalid “Kal” Mentak, a visionary in global eye care innovation. With over 45 technology patents and groundbreaking contributions to cataract surgery and ocular implant technologies, Dr. Mentak’s work has transformed lives worldwide. Now Dr. Mentak is spearheading a global humanitarian effort…
Bob Haney
Bob Haney, Creator of Heavenly Waffles Interview Transcript: Alan Olsen This is Alan Olsen, and welcome to American dreams. My guest today is Bob Haney. Actually, I should correct that the chef Bob Haney, he is the founder and the creator of Heavenly Waffles. Bob, welcome to today’s show. Bob Haney Alan, thanks so much…