Getting the mess straightened out took 16 months the first time, and she had to get a second job to make up for the lost refund.

WSJ: Slow Refunds Rile Taxpayers

But the cavalier treatment of passengers left stranded by flight cancellations and the yelling of obscenities at people who, in sometimes tragic circumstances, make the mistake of asking for a refund have given Ryanair a deserved reputation for nastiness.

ECONOMIST: Aviation

So an ID thief in possession of a valid name and Social Security number can create phony W-2s and apply for a refund of make-believe withholding, or for a refundable credit, such as the earned income tax credit, worth thousands of dollars.

FORBES: IRS Tips Won't Protect You From Identity Theft Tax Fraud

On the other hand, if your financial position is stable and your debts are in check, why not splurge and use that refund money to buy yourself a racy sports coupe or convertible to help assuage your vehicular fantasies and make the most of the enticing spring and summer weekends ahead.

FORBES: The Coolest Cars You Can Buy With Your Tax Refund