It’s everyone’s favorite time of year: tax season. With the panic-inducing filing deadline (Monday, April 18th) quickly approaching, it’s important to remember that a payment from Uncle Sam may be on its way to you soon. While the total lump sum probably won’t be enough to make a down payment on an in-ground pool Clark Griswold-style, here are some suggestions for how to spend that cold, hard cash in Chicago:
Lyft money. Literally, that’s it. Use it for late-night Lyft rides after you’ve closed down every bar in town like the maniac you are.
Ventra. Use your return money to pay down that deficit from overdrawing your Ventra account. Pay off your CTA debt quickly to avoid not being able to use your card when you need it most—like when you’re in the front of a line of sighing commuters at Merchandise Mart.
Amazon Prime membership. You shouldn't have to stand by your gate waiting for your delivery in the rain. It's 2016, and Amazon Prime exists. It gives you free two-day shipping so you can have your five-pound bag of Haribo sugar-free gummy bears waiting for you when you get home from work. Even better, it gives you access to Prime Now, which means you can have your Mucinex delivered within two hours—a godsend for anyone with springtime allergy boogers.
Tamales for days. We’re all aware of the tamale man who appears mysteriously in the middle of the dance floor with a cooler full of corny goodness. Next time he pops up like a phantom, impress him and everyone around you by saying “all of them” while fanning out a wad of your tax return cash with a simplistic nod.
Plants for your space. Spruce up your apartment or work desk—literally. Normally you wouldn't splurge on such frivolous decor, but with a tax return, the botany possibilities are endless. They'll clean the air (sort of), and trick people into thinking you have your shit together. If you don’t care about air purification, do it for the privacy. Line the edge of your desk with spider plants to create a protective forest between you and your co-workers.
Take a mixed martial arts class. A mixed-martial arts class will not only teach you self-defense—it will provide meaningful life lessons like self-confidence and positive mindset.
Get fit. Use the money for a gym membership or trainer. Having the monthly bill will be another incentive to keep you accountable and get you to the gym. Having a trainer will pave the way for someone else to push you beyond your personal roadblocks and excuses.
