As I write this on December 17, 2025, we’re one week from Christmas and two weeks from New Year’s.
Most of us are focused on family, travel, and last-minute shopping (I still have a few packages to mail myself!).
But the smartest investors use this quiet time to check a few high-impact financial boxes — no big projects, just quick wins that can save thousands in taxes and set you up for a stronger 2026.
Here are 5 last-chance 2025 moves you can still make before the ball drops.
- Max Out 2025 Retirement Contributions (if you have earned income)
- 401(k)/403(b): $23,500 + $7,500 catch-up (50+) = $31,000 total
- IRA/Roth IRA: $7,000 + $1,000 catch-up = $8,000 total
Quick eligibility reminder:
- Traditional IRA: Anyone with earned income can contribute; deductibility phases out at higher incomes if covered by a workplace plan.
- Roth IRA: Direct contributions phase out above $150k single / $236k MFJ (2025).
- Over the limit? Use the backdoor Roth (non-deductible Traditional IRA contribution → convert to Roth). No income limit on conversions.
Even severance, consulting, or side income counts. One client last week added $8,000 to his Roth through the backdoor — tax-free growth forever.
- Harvest Tax Losses in Taxable Accounts
Look at your brokerage account — any positions in the red?
Sell before Dec 31 to offset capital gains.
Up to $3,000 of net losses can reduce ordinary income; carry forward the rest indefinitely.
- Make 2025 Charitable Gifts
Cash, appreciated stock, or donor-advised fund contributions by Dec 31 qualify for 2025 deductions.
If 70½+, set up QCDs now for 2026 RMDs — many custodians let you schedule early.
One couple just gifted appreciated stock — avoided capital gains and got the deduction.
- Double-Check Required Distributions
- First RMD year? Take it by Dec 31 to avoid double-tax in 2026.
- Inherited IRAs? Confirm annual or 10-year rule deadlines.
Miss one → 25% penalty (reduced to 10% if fixed quickly).
A quick call to your custodian confirms everything’s done.
- Review Beneficiary Designations
The biggest “oops” I see every December: outdated beneficiaries on IRAs, 401(k)s, life insurance, annuities.
Divorce, new grandkids, family changes — make sure the right people get the money the right way.
Takes 10 minutes online or one form.
Your Simple Action Plan
Pick one (or more) of these five and knock it out this week.
You’ll thank yourself in April — and for years after.
Because there IS a Smarter Way to Retire.
Want to see how these moves fit your exact situation?
→ Take my free 2-minute retirement readiness quiz + get my book instantly:
https://LeonardiFamilyWealthcare.com/quiz
Or book a complimentary 15-minute review:
https://calendly.com/anthony-leonardi-leonardifwc/15-minute-check-in-quick-questions-quick-answers
Plan smarter. Retire happier.
Happy holidays!
— Tony Leonardi, CFP®
Newtown, Connecticut