Breathe easier on taxes: The federal filing deadline has been delayed to Monday, April 18, because of the celebration of Emancipation Day in Washington, DC. Maine and Massachusetts have an April 19 date because of Patriots Day. These dates also are the deadlines for making 2015 contributions to retirement accounts.

Spend your refund wisely: IRS tax refunds average almost $3,000. Best uses for windfalls: Pay down high-interest debt…add to retirement accounts…boost emergency funds (three to six months of expenses are recommended)…donate to charity for 2016 tax savings.

Plant a tree: Arbor Day is Friday, April 29. Donate to have a tree planted in a national forest in honor of a loved one. The Arbor Day Foundation.

Sign up for disappearing Social Security loopholes: Saturday, April 30, is the last day for seniors to claim certain spousal benefits. Consult your financial adviser—or look up details at the Social Security website or at Bottom Line Inc.’s Social Security Loopholes Ending.

Celebrate Shakespeare: Events will be held on and around the 400th anniversary of his death (Saturday, April 23) in England, especially in London and Stratford-upon-Avon. Also in Stratford, Ontario…Chicago…New Orleans…Pinecrest, Florida…and other US sites. And: The renowned 1623 First Folio, the first collected edition of Shakespeare’s plays, is touring the US.

Shape up safely in spring: Cycling: Have your bike checked thoroughly. Increase total mileage weekly by no more than 20%. Golf: Practice with slow, easy swings. Target arms, lower back and trunk with stretching and strengthening exercises. Tennis: Upper-body exercises are important—try the workout at MensFitness.com. Walking: If you didn’t exercise in winter, start by walking for only 10 minutes a day. Add an extra five minutes to each day every week.

Related Articles