As tax season approaches, San Francisco residents are urged to rethink their approach to tax refunds, with experts cautioning against the allure of large IRS checks. Despite the excitement of receiving a sizable refund, financial advisors emphasize that this windfall might not be in the best interest of individuals’ long-term financial health.

According to IRS filing statistics, the average tax refund climbed to nearly $3,200 last year. While this may seem like a welcome bonus, experts warn that it indicates taxpayers are over-withholding throughout the year, essentially providing the government with an interest-free loan.

Michelle Su, a Certified Public Accountant and Master of Business Taxation, highlights the detrimental impact of this practice, particularly amidst the backdrop of escalating household debt. With credit card APR hitting a 38-year high and nationwide credit card debt balances soaring, individuals are advised to prioritize debt reduction and savings over waiting for a lump sum refund.

To address this issue, taxpayers are encouraged to adjust their withholding throughout the year by submitting a revised W-4 form to their employers. This allows for more accurate tax withholding based on changing circumstances, such as marital status, dependents, and income fluctuations.

However, taxpayers must exercise caution to avoid underpayment penalties from the IRS. Significant life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child can impact tax liabilities and filing status, necessitating adjustments to withholding. Failure to pay sufficient taxes throughout the year could result in penalties and interest charges, negating any potential benefits of reducing withholding.

While the ideal scenario is to minimize or eliminate tax refunds altogether, individuals must strike a balance between maximizing take-home pay and meeting their tax obligations. By reassessing their withholding strategy and adopting a proactive approach to financial planning, San Francisco residents can navigate tax season with greater financial stability and resilience against mounting debt burdens.