Every spring, millions of Americans take part in a ritual that’s as predictable as the seasons changing: filing a tax return. If you’re a young adult filing your first serious return, the whole process can feel mysterious, maybe even a little intimidating. But once you understand what’s actually happening behind the scenes, the ritual starts to make sense — and you gain a level of financial confidence that will serve you for decades.

We’ve all heard the old sayings: “Money can’t buy happiness.” “Money is the root of all evil.” “Riches ruin the soul.” They sound wise, but they often leave people—especially young adults—confused about whether financial success is something to pursue or something to fear. The truth is far less dramatic.