If you were fortunate enough to get a sizeable tax return or inheritance it doesn't mean you have to spend it all right now. If you're not used to having emergency funds when a windfall cheque comes your way it may be tempting to spend the cash before it disappears. Hmm... isn't that why most lottery winners go broke within a year or two? If it's not second nature yet, get into the habit of saving money to cover rent, mortgage and utilities for six months or at least a couple of months.