It’s always nice to receive a sudden windfall, but what do you do with it?

It’s very responsible to get your taxes done as soon as possible, not to mention easier and faster than having to do it at the same time as everyone else. Assuming something about your return doesn’t prompt the IRS to throw a brick through your window, you should get a tax refund promptly. If you receive a big stack of cash, then it’s time to decide what to do with it.

If you have any outstanding debt, the first place that money should go toward is paying it off. Credit cards, back rent, utilities, or whatever other vital services you may be behind on should be dealt with as soon as possible. Having a big wad of cash in your pocket is nice, but you know what’s nicer? Not having the threat of debt hanging over your head.

If you’re all caught up on your bills, consider putting that money toward something practical. If there’s a part of your home that’s not in the best shape, for instance, use that money to fix it. Repair stuff, get some new appliances, or maybe just redecorate. If you’re feeling gutsy, you could try investing in the stock market. If you’ve got some know-how, you might be able to use that money to find your next big move.

If all that’s out the window, then just stick that money in the bank and save it for a rainy day. You never know when you’ll just suddenly need a big stack of cash, after all.