For clients of Erick Conway, please CLICK HERE to see important details related to the Strong Valley transition.
Call Our Office
(559) 384-2900 | Fresno
(619) 480-1413 | San Diego
Your Money
Your Life
Your Way
Article

Top 5 Year-End Financial Planning Tips

Top 5 Year-End Financial Planning Tips

There are some basic ways you can go into the coming new year with a financial plan that can significantly impact your financial health and set the stage for a more prosperous future.  Consider these 5 year-end planning tips to review your financial status before the calendar flips.

December 12, 2023
Top 5 Year-End Financial Planning Tips
Important Disclosure: Content on our website and in our newsletters is for informational purposes only. The information provided may (or may not) directly apply to your situation. We recommend that readers work directly with a professional advisor when making decisions in the context of their specific situation.

As the end of the year approaches, it's an opportune time to review your financial status and make strategic decisions that can impact your financial well-being in the coming year. Implementing certain financial moves before the year ends can potentially save you money, optimize your taxes, and set a solid foundation for the future.

Here are the top five financial tips you should consider before the calendar flips:

1. Maximize Retirement Contributions

Contributing to retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, or Roth IRAs, before the year ends can bring several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to take advantage of tax-deferred or tax-free growth. Maxing out your contributions can reduce your taxable income for the year, potentially lowering your tax bill.

Moreover, funding these accounts to the maximum extent possible sets the stage for a more financially secure retirement. The power of compound interest means that the earlier you invest, the more time your money has to grow.

Don't miss the opportunity to contribute as much as you can before the year concludes.

2. Review and Adjust Investment Portfolios

A thorough review of your investment portfolio is crucial as the year ends. Assess whether your investments are aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Consider rebalancing your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation. Rebalancing involves selling some overperforming assets and reinvesting in underperforming ones to realign with your original strategy. This move not only mitigates risk but also positions your investments for potential growth in the upcoming year.

3. Utilize Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts

Check your balances in FSAs and HSAs, as these accounts often have "use-it-or-lose-it" policies for funds not utilized by the end of the year. Consider using these funds for eligible medical expenses, as they can provide substantial tax advantages.

Some FSAs might have a grace period or allow a carryover of a limited amount of funds, but it's essential to understand the specific rules governing your accounts.

4. Review Insurance Coverage and Estate Planning

Evaluate your insurance policies, including health, life, and property insurance, to ensure they still meet your needs. Life changes and evolving circumstances may necessitate adjustments to coverage levels or beneficiaries. Additionally, review and update your estate planning documents, such as wills and trusts, to reflect any changes in your life or financial situation.

5. Get a Professional’s Perspective

Consider consulting with a certified financial advisor to tailor these strategies to your specific circumstances and goals. By making proactive financial decisions with a professional, you can pave the way for a more secure and prosperous financial journey in the year ahead.

Other content you may like

  • What's Driving the Market

    Podcast Highlight - Answering Client Questions: Why doesn't my banker call me about higher rates?

    March 12, 2023
    Dispelling any confusion between a Depositor Relationship and a Custodial Relationship, the team clarifies why your Bank needs to have FDIC insurance and how they best serve you compared to a custodial service that is holding your assets so they can work for you.
    Read this Article
  • Podcast Highlight - Client Questions: T-Bills are simple, can they save the day?

    August 31, 2023
    The Team discusses how people are enjoying the interest rates that their conservative investments are paying but warns that cash vehicles are not long-term solutions.
    Read this Article
  • Buchanan Wrestling Annual Golf Tournament

    Buchanan Wrestling Annual Golf Tournament

    November 7, 2022
    Supporting local community is important to us. As an organization, we get involved as volunteers and also with donations. Read about how Strong Valley is helping support the Buchanan High School Wrestling Team.
    Read this Article
  • Stocks Lose Money for the 26th Time

    Don't Judge Diversification on Feelings

    January 29, 2023
    Focusing on what happened in 2022, this Student of the Market shows an overview of last year’s performance compared to similar years in the market’s history. This may be a window into the possibilities for 2023 and the future of Federal Reserve rate hikes. Also a look at the numbers showing that even though portfolio diversification works, it doesn’t always feel good.
    Read this Article
  • The link you have selected is located on another server. The linked site contains information that has been created, published, maintained, or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of this organization. We do not endorse, approve, certify, or control any linked websites, their sponsors, or any of their policies, activities, products, or services. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information contained therein. Visitors to any linked websites should not use or rely on the information contained therein until they have consulted with an independent financial professional. Please click “Continue to Link” to leave this website and proceed to the selected site.
    phone-handset