People should use their income tax refunds for establishing financial priorities and goals, including purchasing life insurance, one insurer is recommending.

The deadline for filing federal income tax is April 15.

In a statement, Allstate Regional Financial Sales Leader Dan Mattingly suggests that splurging this year with a refund is inappropriate, even though it was the approach many people took in previous, better years financially.

“It’s the right time for refund recipients to consider meeting with a financial professional who can help establish financial priorities and goals,” Mattingly said.

“If you have outstanding bills or debts, take care of those matters first. But if you find you have money left over from your tax refund or have the full amount, don’t be scared of your options — be smart in your decisions,” Mattingly added.

Mattingly and Allstate recommend people consider setting up an emergency savings fund, buying life insurance, contributing to or opening an IRA, purchasing a Certificate of Deposit, or establishing or adding to a college fund.