Let's take a look:

Bankrate.com conducted a survey. Actually they commissioned Princeton Survey Research Associates International to do a survey on whether we're ready to pay the tax man should we have to. What they found out gave insight into how we plan to handle a refund, should we get one.

84% of Americans getting refunds plan to pay down debt, save or invest their windfall or use it for everyday necessities. Only 7% said they plan to use it for a shopping spree or vacation or something not related to practicality.

Now comes the other side of the coin, those who owe taxes. 40% of those who believe they owe taxes are not prepared to pay up. 6% said they plan to borrow money to pay Uncle Sam and 17% said they plan to set up an installment plan with the IRS. 63% said they plan to pay it straight out of their bank accounts.

Getting back to that 84% who would do something practical with a refund. 30% of those said they plan to pay down debt. 28% said they'll save or invest it. 26% said they'll use it for necessities like food and utility bills.

Either way the overall picture isn't a very bright one. So my conclusion, at least according to this survey: Fiction