Ten Wild Ways to Spend $10,000
By Nate Herpich
Call them crazy or reckless, but here are some suggestions -- if you dare.
NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Let's say you have an extra $10,000 lying around and aren't sure what to do with it. Your debts are pretty much paid off, your 401(k) is being fully funded and your mutual funds are doing just fine, thank you.
Sure, you could put the money into the roller-coaster ride called the stock market and set yourself up for an extra dose of market volatility. Or you could do the sensible thing and make extra payments against your mortgage. But if just this once you'd rather do something off the wall with the money?
Here are 10 suggestions:
1. Give to Charity
You can even find a charity that matches up with your interests, by visiting a website like Charity Navigator Then you know that the money is going to use for something that you care about, and you can even check ratings based on criteria like organizational efficiency and revenue versus expenses.
Plus, thinking in April terms, charitable donations are tax deductible (although it's too late for this year). Just remember that you must itemize your deductions, and that there may be a limit on what you can deduct. You may also require specific forms from the IRS and you do need a receipt from the organization stating the charity's name, how much you donated, the date and a statement that no goods or services were received in return for your gift.
2. Take a Plastic Surgery Safari
Medical tourism is fast becoming a way for clients to take advantage of quality health care at cheaper prices, while combining often aesthetic procedures with relaxing vacations in exotic locations. Plus, the time away provides one with an opportunity to begin to heal. South Africa's Surgeon and Safari provides services ranging from cosmetic orthopedic to dental to sports medicine.
Safari options include bush, wine and train safaris, among others. Surgical Attractions also offers cosmetic procedures.
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Fidelity Viewpoints
Key takeaways
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Key Takeaways
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Pay off credit cards monthly and minimize debt.
Automate savings with an emergency fund and retirement contributions.
U.S. consumers can request a free annual credit report from major agencies.
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