For those dreaming of homeownership, a tax refund can serve as a steppingstone toward achieving this goal. Solidifying your down payment and covering closing costs are some of the many ways you can leverage your tax refund to buy a home. Understanding the tax implications of homeownership—including deductions such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and 1098 forms—can further enhance your financial strategy.

Learn how to use your tax refund as a step toward homeownership or to improve your financial stability if you already own a home.

High-Yield Savings Account

Using tax returns to fund a high-yield savings account offers an opportunity to build a robust emergency fund or save for future expenses like home renovations, unexpected repairs, or even long-term investments. By allocating tax returns toward a high-yield savings account, homeowners can ensure a financial safety net, providing peace of mind and the ability to navigate any unforeseen financial challenges.

At Union Savings Bank, our Maximizer Savings Accounts may offer competitive interest rates that allow you to grow savings over time, thus further solidifying a financial foundation.

Call or visit your local USB branch for more information.

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Down Payment

Using your tax refund toward a down payment on a house can be a strategic financial move that expedites your journey toward homeownership. It can boost your purchasing power and, in turn, allow you to afford a home that otherwise may have been out of reach.

With a larger down payment, you may qualify for better mortgage terms, including lower interest rates and reduced monthly payments. A substantial down payment can also decrease the overall loan amount, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in interest over the life of the loan.

Closing Costs

Closing costs, which typically range from 2%–5% of a home’s purchase price, can add a significant expense to the homebuying process. Allocating your tax return toward these costs may alleviate a substantial financial burden upfront so you can preserve savings for other purposes.

Additionally, paying for closing costs with your tax return could streamline the homebuying process and expedite the transaction.

Make Necessary Home Renovations/Repairs

By using your tax returns for renovations or repairs, you may make your home more habitable or increase its market value. Some crucial issues to fix could include structural defects, outdated systems, or cosmetic improvements that enhance the property’s livability and appeal.

This approach may improve the quality of your living space and increase your home’s resale value, potentially giving a higher return on investment in the future. Tackling repairs early on may also prevent more significant issues, saving you from costly repairs or renovations in the long term.

Pay Off Debt To Improve Your Financial Situation

By reducing or eliminating high-interest debt, such as credit card balances or personal loans, you can free yourself from the burden of interest payments and potentially save a significant amount of money in the long run. Additionally, reducing debt can improve your credit score, opening doors to better opportunities and lower interest rates.

A 1098 Form and Where To Find It

A 1098 form is a document provided by lenders to borrowers that details information such as the total interest paid on your mortgage, points paid on the mortgage, and, in some cases, mortgage insurance premiums. The IRS requires lenders to issue the 1098 form to borrowers if the amount of mortgage interest paid exceeds a certain threshold.

For homeowners, the information provided on the 1098 form is crucial for claiming deductions on federal income tax returns. It allows you to deduct mortgage interest payments, potentially reducing taxable income and lowering overall tax liability. If you are already a Union Savings Bank customer, you receive this document in the mail by the end of January. If you don’t receive it, reach out to loan servicing to receive an electronic copy.

Leveraging smart financial planning and considering various options such as down payments, closing costs, or investing in home improvement projects can make the most of your tax refund. Whether you’re aiming to boost your savings, pay off debt, or enhance your homebuying prospects, using your tax refund wisely may serve as a gateway for turning your homeownership dreams into reality.

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These articles are for educational purposes only and provide general mortgage information. Products, services, processes, and lending criteria described in these articles may differ from those available through Union Savings Bank. For more information on available products and services and to discuss your options, please contact a Union Savings Bank loan officer.