 TITLE: How Your Tax Refund Could Improve Your Credit Score CONTENT: Build an Emergency Fund\n-----------------------\nStarting or growing a savings account for emergencies won't have an immediate effect on your credit scores. But it will safeguard your scores from the effects of going into debt to cover an unforeseen expense, like a medical bill or car repair.\nThe ideal amount to save depends on the predictability of your income and expenses, and on your individual lifestyle. A healthy emergency fund generally should cover three to six months of basic expenses, but you might decide you'd feel secure with more or less. Your tax refund can give you a jump-start on your savings account, and you can contribute a small amount monthly thereafter to hit your goal.\nOnce you build your savings, you'll be able to avoid using a credit card in a pinch. But once you've dipped into your fund, make sure to replenish it as soon as you can. END