📅 Day 20: Year-End Tax Planning in 5 Easy Steps

📅 Day 20: Year-End Tax Planning in 5 Easy Steps

Make tax season smoother with smart, proactive moves before December 31st.

Whether you're a small business owner, freelancer, or salaried employee, year-end tax planning isn’t just about saving money—it’s about reclaiming control. These five steps will help you close the year with confidence and clarity.

✅ Step 1: Review Your Income & Withholdings

Before the year ends, take a close look at your total income and how much tax has already been withheld.

• Use your latest pay stubs and 1099s to estimate total earnings
• Compare with last year’s tax return to spot major changes
• Adjust W-4 withholdings if you’ve had a raise, side income, or changed jobs

📌 Planner Tip: Create a simple income tracker with columns for source, amount, and tax withheld. It’s a sanity-saver come filing time.

🧾 Step 2: Maximize Retirement Contributions

Tax-deferred accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are powerful tools for reducing taxable income.

• Contribute up to the annual limit ($23,500 for 401(k), $7,000 for IRA in 2025)
• If self-employed, consider a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k)
• Check if you qualify for the Saver’s Credit

💡 Bonus Insight: Even partial contributions can lower your AGI and unlock other deductions or credits.

🎁 Step 3: Use Strategic Deductions

Don’t leave money on the table—especially if you itemize.

• Make charitable donations (cash or goods) before December 31
• Pay medical bills or property taxes early if you’re close to the deduction threshold
• Track unreimbursed business expenses if you're self-employed

🧮 Planner Tip: Use a deduction worksheet to compare standard vs. itemized totals. Choose the higher one with confidence.

📚 Step 4: Harvest Gains & Losses

If you have investments, now’s the time to review your portfolio.

• Sell losing investments to offset capital gains
• Rebalance your portfolio with tax efficiency in mind
• Watch out for the wash-sale rule (don’t repurchase the same security within 30 days)

📊 Planner Tip: Create a “Tax Impact” column in your investment tracker to visualize gains, losses, and net effect.

🗂️ Step 5: Organize & Digitize Your Records

A little prep now saves hours later.

• Collect receipts, invoices, and donation letters
• Scan and store documents in labeled folders (e.g., “2025 Taxes > Deductions”)
• Make a checklist of forms you expect (W-2, 1099, 1098, etc.)

🧘 Planner Tip: Set a 30-minute weekly “tax tidy” session in December. It’s low-stress and high-impact.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Year-end tax planning isn’t just for accountants—it’s for anyone who wants to enter the new year with less stress and more financial clarity. These five steps are simple, actionable, and designed to fit into your planner-driven lifestyle.