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What to Buy With Your Tax Refund

With tax season in full swing, here are some ideas on how to spend that wonderful refund check.
This article is over 9 years old and may contain outdated information

It’s that time of year again for W2s, 1099s, and a trip to H&R Block. If you’re lucky, some of you will get to stay indoors, hop on your trusty computer, and file those taxes online. Not having to pay the IRS is a Godsend and receiving that refund check is like Christmas (or any holiday gift). If you have a kid like me, you’ll even get a Child Tax Credit which will add some extra dollars to that check.

Throughout the year, so many of us gamers put off buying things we’d love to own for various reasons. Now with tax season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to purchase those long-awaited for items.

So what should you buy?
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New PC or Laptop

Dell has some great deals on Windows 7 PCs and laptops right now on their website where you can customize according to your budget. Deals starting from $379.99 and up on desktops; and $229.99 and up on laptops is not a bad way to go.


Xbox One

If you haven’t already, how about purchasing an Xbox One console? You can purchase at various stores locally or directly online via Microsoft. Bundles start at $399.99 and up like the Madden NFL 15 without Kinect. The Assassin's Creed Unity and Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag bundle with Kinect is $499.99. It also includes Titanfall for a limited time.


PlayStation 4

What about upgrading your PS3 to the PS4 console? Whether purchasing in-store or online directly through Sony, you can get your hands on some great bundles starting at $399.99. Pick from The Last of Us Remastered, Destiny, Far Cry 4, NBA 2K15, or Little Big Planet 3.


Wii U

Getting your hands on the Nintendo Wii U system is always a wonderful idea for the entire family. The Super Mario 3D World Bundle is available at $299.99. It even includes Nintendo Land.

Don't forget to include extra controllers, Mario Kart 8, and Super Smash Bros. These are a must-have!


Gaming Desk

Perhaps it's time to replace or get a new gaming desk. Sites like Amazon are a great place to start looking for various types of desks to meet your needs and budget. Take a look at some of these extreme gaming desks and these expensive gaming desks if only to dream saying "I wish."

This Atlantic 33935701 Gaming Desk here is a great option thanks to its features, dimensions, and price of $90.89 with shipping included.

  • Steel rod frame construction
  • Cable management system
  • Fits 27 inch flat panel monitor up to 40 lbs
  • Charging Station
  • Speaker trays
  • Drink holder
  • Headset holder
  • 26.5 inches x 50 inches x 40.25 inches; 37.4 lbs.

Gaming Headset

A killer headset definitely comes in handy when you want to fully immerse yourself in your game. PCmag.com has a great review on their Top Gaming Headsets. On this list you'll find reviews on the Razer Kraken Pro, Skullcandy PLYR 1 Gaming Headset, to the ultimate Astro Gaming A50 Wireless Headset.

Here's a great review on the Corsair H1500 Headset by our own D.Slater.


Gaming Keyboard and Mouse

Well, who doesn't need a great gaming keyboard and mouse? Keyboards like the SteelSeries Apex, Razer BlackWidow Ultimate (2014), Mad Catz S.T.R.I.K.E. TE, and the Roccat Ryos MK Pro are great options.

When looking for the ultimate mouse, options such as the Logitech G602 Wireless Gaming Mouse, Corsair Vengeance M65, Roccat Tyon, SteelSeries Sensei Wireless, and the Razer Ouroboros are pretty sweet.


Gaming Chair

Have you ever dreamt of splurging on the ultimate gaming chair? I know I have! This may be your perfect opportunity to provide yourself with the ultimate companion from the expensive to the even budget friendly variety. There are various types of chairs on the market for kids and adults whether you're on a PC or console. Choosing one for your child may not exactly be suitable for you, so keep that in mind--one size does NOT fit all.

Amazon is great place to start looking, along with Best Buy, Newegg, Staples, Sears, Target, Walmart, and even bizrate. Shopping online is a great way to shop, check customer reviews, and find the best price that won't give the wallet a heart attack.


Games

If you're looking to stock up on games, whether it be for the PC, Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo, GameSkinny certainly has lots of reviews to help make some of those decisions a little bit easier. Check out some of these recent releases:

What ideas do you have in mind? Did you like our suggestions? Let us know in the comments.


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Author
Image of Venisia Gonzalez
Venisia Gonzalez
Venisia is a public relations professional, video game industry contractor, published author, freelance entertainment journalist, copy editor, a co-organizer of the Latinx Games Festival, and a member of the Latinx in Gaming and the Puerto Rico Game Developers (PRGD) community. Her passion is video games. She loves the adrenaline rush from a multiplayer match and understands the frustrations of a brand-new raid. Venisia finds immense value in gaming especially in the realm of mental health.