Many people are preparing to file their income tax returns. I recommend that you do not opt for the rapid refund, because most of the time you leave too much money on the table. This year, if you are one of the individuals who will receive a refund, make your best effort to put away as much of that money as possible in some sort of account which will allow you to build a savings. Your ultimate goal should be to have atleast four to six months of your monthly salary in a savings account.  Prepare now for your rainy day.

Lisa Rogers-Cherry is the author of Lifting the Burdens of Debt:  A Helpful Guide to Getting Your Debts Paid and Your Life Back on Track (2005; $14.95). Lisa writes monthly financial tips for www.bloggingblackmiami.com and can be heard on www.wmbm.com  on the Let's Talk Money Show.  If you have a question or for more information go to www.redpenpress.com, e-mail her at [email protected], or write Lisa Rogers-Cherry, Red Pen Press, P. O. Box 1196, Dania Beach, FL 33004.