Quick Financial Tips to End the Year Strong

Darren Downs, CFP^®, CIMA^®

November 05, 2025

As your peak earning years unfold, now is the time to turn income into lasting financial momentum. The end of the year offers a strategic opportunity to review your finances and take action.

Here are five key areas to focus on:

Investments: Rebalance your portfolio and assess risk tolerance. Diversify if you're heavily invested in employer stock.
Taxes: Maximize contributions to retirement accounts, harvest losses, and spend FSA balances. Consider charitable giving through a Donor-Advised Fund.
Insurance: Review health, life, and disability coverage. Consider an umbrella policy if your net worth has grown.
Education Planning: Make 529 contributions, forecast future costs, and understand how current income affects financial aid.
Next Year’s Goals: Update your budget, measure net worth, refresh estate plans, and explore income growth opportunities.

Together we can tailor these strategies to your goals. With a proactive approach, you can enter the new year with confidence and clarity.

Rebalancing may be a taxable event. Before you take any specific action be sure to consult with your tax professional.

Cetera exclusively provides investment products and services through its representatives. Although Cetera does not provide tax or legal advice, or supervise tax, accounting or legal services, Cetera representatives may offer these services through their independent outside business. This information is not intended as tax or legal advice.