We know that the holidays are a busy time for you and your family; it’s a wonderful time to celebrate and signifies a productive year of work with the glimmer of a blank slate starting in January.

At Denver Private Wealth Management, we want you to enjoy your holidays to the fullest, which is why we’ve created a simple year-end checklist. Checking these items off your to-do list will hopefully allow you to relax in December and begin the new year on the right foot.

 

 1. Review your retirement plan contributions

How much have you contributed to your retirement plans year-to-date? Remember, these retirement plans are tax advantaged. Is there room to withhold more out of your last few paychecks to juice up your contributions by the end of the year?

 

 2. Open enrollment through work

When is the last time you sat down and looked through the different benefit options your company provides? Group life insurance, health insurance, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)…the list goes on. Make sure you are maxing the benefits your company gives you otherwise you could be leaving money on the table!

 

 3. Tax season will be here before you know it

No one wants to think about it, but tax season is looming! While you don’t receive most of your tax documents until the new year, do you know which tax documents you will receive this year and from where? If you use a CPA, have you contacted them so that you’re not scrambling in March to get your taxes filed?

 

 4. Charitable contributions

It’s the giving season! Are there charities you care about and want to donate to? Have you considered the most effective gifting strategies? While charitable donations are altruistic in nature, they can also create huge tax savings. Gifting by the end of the year can reduce your large tax bill!

 

 5. Review your Budget

Have you reviewed your household budget lately? Typically, the end of the year can have your cashflow going haywire. Summer trips and holiday gifts can make your budgeting plans go out the window! Sit down and confirm where your money is going each month.

Also, typically the end of the year/beginning of the year is bonus season for most people. Have you confirmed how that bonus will help your long-term financial plans? Consider reaching out to your financial advisor to game plan for that big check!

 

Now is the perfect time to reach out to your financial advisor to ensure you’re on the right track for the new year.  The holidays will be here before you know it; CLICK HERE to make your appointment.