2018
Year-End Financial Checklist
As we enter the final month of 2018 here are a few strategies that can help with your end-of-year financial planning.
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Max out 401 (k) and IRA Contributions
The first tip to help lower your taxes for the year is to maximize your contributions to tax-deferred savings accounts if you haven’t already. 401(k) and IRA contributions are tax deductible and can lower your taxes for 2018. The maximum 2018 contributions are $18,500 for 401(k)s and $5,500 for IRAs. If you are over the age of 50 the catch-up contributions are increased to $24,500 and $6,500 respectively. Remember that IRA contributions made before April 15th, 2019 can be applied as a 2018’s contribution
Don’t forget to take your RMD
If you are over the age of 70 ½ you are required by the IRS to withdraw a minimum amount from your retirement accounts each year. You can use an RMD calculator or speak with your advisor to make sure you are taking the required amount. If you fail to take your RMD or withdrawal less that the required amount the IRS may impose a 50% tax on the shortfall.
Harvest your losses
Tax-loss harvesting is when you sell losing positions to help offset your taxable gains for the year. If your losses exceed your gains for the year, you may use it to offset up to $3,000 in ordinary income. Any amount over that $3,000 can be carried forward to use in future years. Remember that you must wait at least 31 days if you wish to re-purchase the security. Tax-loss harvesting must be completed by December 31st. Be sure to consult with a tax professional before performing any tax trades.
Consider Gifting to Charity
If you itemize your deductions the IRS allows you to deduct up to 50% of your adjusted gross income to any donations made to a qualifying charity. However, with the standard deduction doubling many people will lose the ability to itemize. If you no longer itemize but still wish to donate to charity, please contact us to hear about alternatives.
Don’t have a charity in mind?
Check out our great partners.
www.takeabreakfromcancer.com
Review your plan and Portfolio
It is important to review your portfolio and accounts frequently. Having a plan is important, however we believe the execution of the plan is just as important. Otherwise it can quickly become a useless packet of paper. Please reach out to us if you would like to discuss any of these areas further.
This is where we can help, Call your Investment Specialist TODAY.
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610-825-3540
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