November and December
Reviewing End-of-Year Planning Opportunities
The final months of the year are critical for time-sensitive financial decisions.Evaluate Tax Strategies
Before December 31, consider:
- Tax-loss harvesting
- Charitable contributions
- Retirement plan contributions
- Income timing strategies
Take a Comprehensive View
A year-end review allows you to assess your entire financial picture and identify adjustments that position you well for the coming year.
A structured checklist can help ensure important planning windows are not overlooked.
Strategic Charitable Giving: Is a Donor Advised Fund Right for You?
Charitable giving can be both meaningful and tax-efficient when approached strategically.When to Consider a Donor Advised Fund (DAF)
A DAF may be appropriate if you:
- Plan to make a large charitable gift
- Want to bunch contributions to maximize deductions
- Typically claim the standard deduction
- Wish to retain control over the timing of distributions
A structured decision guide can help determine whether this vehicle aligns with your philanthropic and tax planning objectives.
Strategic giving ensures your generosity supports both your charitable goals and your broader financial plan.
Understanding Income from Taxable Non-Qualified Accounts
Income generated from taxable investment accounts—such as interest, dividends, and capital gains—can significantly affect your tax picture.Understand the Tax Impact
Portfolio income influences adjusted gross income (AGI) and modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), which may affect:
- Tax brackets
- Medicare premium surcharges
- Net investment income tax exposure
- Eligibility for certain credits
Plan Proactively
Careful review of realized gains, dividend distributions, and interest income can inform tax planning decisions throughout the year.
A structured checklist can help ensure you fully understand how taxable portfolio income interacts with your broader financial strategy.