As summer winds down and we gear up for the fall season, there’s one important task that should be on your radar: tax planning. While thoughts of fall pumpkin spice lattes and sweaters are tempting, it’s also a prime time to start getting your tax matters in order. In this blog, we’ll discuss some practical steps to make your tax planning process this fall efficient and effective. Connect with your financial advisor and tax professional to plan your fall tax planning meeting now!
Assessing Your Situation: Before delving into any specific strategies, it’s important to assess your current financial situation. Have there been any significant changes in your life this year, such as marriage, a new job, or the birth of a child? These changes can impact your tax status and determine which deductions or credits you may be eligible for. By understanding your unique circumstances, you can tailor your tax planning approach accordingly.
Organize Your Financial Documents: While this step always applies to taxes, get your financial documents organized. Collect your income statements, receipts for deductible expenses, investment reports, and any other pertinent records. This preparation will save you headaches when tax time rolls around.
Review Your Financial Goals: Take a moment to consider your financial goals. Are you looking to reduce your tax burden, maximize deductions, or make strategic investments? Your goals will shape your approach to tax planning.
Maximizing Retirement Contributions: One effective way to reduce your taxable income is by maximizing contributions to your retirement accounts. Whether it’s a 401(k), IRA, or another retirement plan, contributing the maximum allowed can help lower your tax liability while also building a secure financial future. The end of the year is a prime time to make any additional contributions, so take advantage of this opportunity.
Estimate Your Tax Liability: Whether you work with a CPA or advisor, or do it yourself, estimate your tax liability for the year to come. Use online tax calculators or seek advice from a tax professional to estimate your potential tax liability for the year. This estimate will guide your decisions as you explore tax-saving strategies.
Harvest Tax Losses: Tax loss harvesting involves selling investments with losses to offset capital gains and potentially lower your tax bill. Approach this tactic thoughtfully, and work with your professional financial advisor to help execute capturing these losses.
Charitable Giving: Fall is a great time to engage in charitable activities. Not only can you make a positive charitable impact, but you can also claim tax deductions for your donations. Keep track of your charitable contributions and ensure you have the necessary documentation for deductions.
We know that taxes can be quite overwhelming and while there’s plenty you can handle independently, consulting a tax professional can provide personalized insights based on your financial situation. They can guide you through complex tax regulations, uncover potential opportunities, and ensure your tax planning is on point. Working with both a financial advisor and tax professional collaboratively can help maximize your financial future and success. So, as fall rolls around, take the opportunity to proactively engage in tax planning. By organizing your financial records, accounting for life changes, and tactically implementing tax-saving strategies, you’ll set the stage for a successful tax season. Remember, a little preparation now can avoid tax headaches months from now. If you have any questions or are interested in utilizing a tax efficient financial strategy, email us at info@shermanwealth.com or schedule a complimentary intro call here.
