The Smart Investors' Year-End Checklist
Simple Steps for a Stronger 2026
As the year winds down, it is easy to get caught up in holiday plans and new-year resolutions. But this is also one of the most valuable check points on the financial calendar. Before the ball drops, a few intentional conversations can help ensure your savings, taxes, and goals are all aligned for a stronger start to 2026.
Below are five year-end topics we recommend revisiting with your family or wealth advisor. Each is a small step that can compound into long-term progress.
1. Review Retirement Contributions and Benefits
Year-end is the perfect time to review your retirement accounts and workplace benefits. Have you maximized your 401(k), IRA, or HSA contributions? Are your selections for health, life, and disability coverage still the right fit for your family?
Even modest increases in contributions before the deadline can have a meaningful long-term impact. Remember that most retirement contributions for 2025 can be made through the tax filing deadline, giving you a little extra time to plan.
At Sandbox, we view this as more than a tax decision. It is about aligning your savings strategy with what matters most in the year ahead.
2. Give with Intention
Many families make charitable gifts in November and December, but few take the time to review how they give.
Donating appreciated securities, using a donor-advised fund, or timing contributions strategically can amplify your impact while also creating tax advantages.
If charitable giving is part of your values, this is a good time to confirm that your approach is both heartfelt and efficient. A short conversation about gifting strategy can help ensure your generosity supports the causes you care about most, in the most effective way possible.
Four Smart Ways to Give to Charity
Giving back is personal but how you give can make a big difference, not only for the causes you support but also for your tax bill. Too often, I hear “I just wrote a check,” which is generous, but not always the most tax-efficient approach.
3. Talk About Taxes Before They Talk About You
Smart tax planning does not happen in April. It happens now.
Review your portfolio for opportunities to harvest losses, convert to a Roth, or adjust withholding before December 31. If you are subject to required minimum distributions, confirm that withdrawals are on track.
These details may seem small, but they are the kind of small moves that help reduce surprises in the spring.
Think of year-end as the halftime of your financial year: a chance to make strategic adjustments before the next whistle blows.
4. Protect What You Have Built
The holidays are a season of giving, but unfortunately also a time when fraud attempts increase. Make sure your online accounts use strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Be cautious about emails or texts requesting personal information.
Financial security starts with digital security. Taking ten minutes to review your protections can prevent problems that take years to resolve.
If you are unsure where to start, we can walk you through best practices for protecting your accounts and sensitive data.
5. Set the Stage for 2026
As the calendar turns, pause to consider what you want your next year to look like. Are there big life events on the horizon? College decisions, home projects, a new business idea, or retirement milestones?
Write down three financial priorities for the next 12 to 24 months. Bringing these goals into focus helps your plan stay personal and adaptable.
At Sandbox, we believe planning is a living process. The most successful clients view it as an ongoing conversation that grows with their lives.
Closing Reflection
Year-end planning is not about perfection. It is about awareness and alignment. By revisiting your contributions, giving, taxes, security, and goals, you give yourself a clearer picture of where you stand and where you are heading.
If any of these topics resonate, now is a great time to schedule a review before the holidays. A short check-in today can help you start 2026 with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.
Want to see how you can maximize your year-end review and head into 2026 on a strong note? Reach out to the Sandbox team and start the conversation today.