As 2024 wraps up, it’s essential to take proactive steps to secure your financial future. From maximizing savings to reducing taxes, these strategies will help you end the year on a high note and prepare for a prosperous 2025. Here’s a detailed look at 10 smart money moves you should make before December 31.
1. Maximize Your Retirement Contributions
Boost your savings and lower your taxable income by contributing the maximum allowed to your retirement accounts:
- 401(k): Up to $22,500 (or $30,000 if you’re 50+).
- IRA: Up to $6,500 (or $7,500 if 50+).
If you can’t contribute the full amount, aim to contribute enough to capture your employer’s matching contributions, which is essentially free money.
2. Tax-Loss Harvesting
Review your investment portfolio for assets that have declined in value. Selling these investments allows you to offset capital gains from other profitable investments, potentially reducing your tax liability. Be cautious of the wash-sale rule, which disallows repurchasing the same or a similar asset within 30 days.
3. Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Deadline
Many FSAs have a “use it or lose it” rule, meaning unspent funds don’t roll over. Check your balance and use it for eligible expenses, such as medical treatments, prescription glasses, or childcare, before year-end. Some plans allow a grace period or limited rollover—confirm with your employer.
4. Strengthen Your Emergency Fund
An adequately funded emergency account shields you from unexpected expenses like medical bills or car repairs. If you received a year-end bonus or extra income, consider allocating a portion to build or replenish your emergency fund, ideally covering 3-6 months of living expenses.
5. Charitable Contributions
Donating to qualified charities not only supports causes you care about but also provides tax benefits. Contributions made by December 31 can be deducted if you itemize. Consider donating appreciated stocks to avoid capital gains taxes while receiving the full deduction for the asset’s value.
6. Review and Optimize Insurance Coverage
Evaluate your current policies for health, life, auto, and home insurance. Adjust coverage to meet your needs and look for potential savings through bundling or switching providers. For health insurance, use this time to review expenses against your deductible and consider scheduling procedures if you’ve met it.
7. Redeem Credit Card Rewards
Many credit cards offer cash back, points, or travel rewards that expire annually. Check your accounts to ensure you redeem benefits that might go unused. Consider using rewards strategically, like covering holiday expenses or purchasing gift cards for future use.
8. Take Advantage of Gifting Exemptions
The IRS allows individuals to gift up to $17,000 per recipient annually without incurring gift taxes. This is an excellent opportunity to transfer wealth to family members or fund education or savings accounts for loved ones.
9. Eliminate High-Interest Debt
Focus on paying down debts with the highest interest rates, such as credit cards or personal loans. With interest rates still elevated, reducing these balances will save money in the long run. Consider using extra income or year-end bonuses to tackle these balances aggressively.
10. Plan Financial Goals for Next Year
Reflect on your progress this year and outline specific goals for 2025. Whether saving for a home, increasing your retirement contributions, or starting an investment portfolio, clear targets will help guide your financial decisions. Use tools like budgeting apps or financial advisors for accountability.
Additional Tips
- Check Your Credit Report: Verify your credit report for errors and dispute inaccuracies to maintain a healthy credit score.
- Prepay Tax-Deductible Expenses: If you itemize, consider paying January’s mortgage or property taxes in December to increase deductions.
- Invest in Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Fund Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or 529 college savings plans for long-term benefits.
Final Thoughts on 10 Smart Money Moves
Taking these year-end money moves can reduce your tax burden, strengthen your finances, and set the stage for a successful year ahead. By acting now, you’ll position yourself to achieve your financial goals and make 2025 your most prosperous year yet.