In a recent survey of clients receiving credit counseling, 71 percent reported they would use at least a portion of anticipated tax refund towards reducing debt. In 1999, the average refund to taxpayers from the Internal Revenue Service has increased by 15 percent to $1,780. That is a substantial amount, considering the average American's monthly take-home pay is around $3,080.

"Small windfalls don't come around every day, don't blow it.," said Suzanne Boas, president of Consumer Credit Counseling Service. "When you have an opportunity to make a power payment on your credit cards, take advantage of it. In the long-term, reducing monthly interest charges make a tremendous difference in the total amount you pay."