Before you blow your cash on car payments or flat screens, it’s worth honestly considering your financial situation before making any decisions. Of course, all the experts advise asking yourself fundamental questions like what are your credit card balances in total (be sure to include those store-issued cards from your favorites, like Old Navy and Target). Got anything socked away for a rainy day? It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You can pay back a little, save a little and spend a little on yourself, too. You deserve it. Smart gals would do well to consider these suggestions for spending your forthcoming tax refund. By Jihan Thompson