Expecting a tax refund or work bonus? Here’s ways to make the cash last

Make unexpected cash from a bonus, tax refund or other windfall last longer. (Elise Amendola/AP file)

The holidays were extra merry for at least two lottery players in the Chicago suburbs, who each won $1 million on scratch-off tickets last month.

While most folks can only dream of such luck, it’s not uncommon to receive an unexpected windfall worth a few thousand dollars this time of year thanks to a bonus from work or a tax refund. Others might receive an unforeseen inheritance or legal settlement.