Last-Minute Tax Moves You Can Still Make Before December 31

‍

‍

‍

The clock is ticking ⏰ — but there are still smart year-end tax moves you can make before December 31 that may help reduce your 2025 tax bill. Year-end tax planning is about timing, compliance, and understanding which strategies still apply to your situation.

‍

Here’s what’s still on the table as the year comes to a close:

‍

1️⃣ Charitable Contributions

Charitable contributions can still impact your 2025 taxes if completed before year-end. Cash donations to IRS-qualified charities made by December 31, 2025 may be deductible if you itemize.

‍

Before donating, be sure to:
‍

✔️ Keep receipts or written acknowledgments
✔️ Confirm the organization is IRS-qualified
✔️ Understand that non-cash donations may require additional documentation

‍

Charitable giving should support both your financial goals and your tax strategy.

‍

2️⃣ Retirement Contributions (Where Applicable)

Certain retirement contributions may still help lower taxable income, depending on eligibility and plan type.

‍

Key considerations include:

• 401(k) contributions must be made through payroll by year-end

• IRA contributions can generally be made until the 2026 tax filing deadline, but planning before December helps confirm eligibility, limits, and deductibility

‍

Reviewing contributions now can help avoid missed opportunities during tax filing.

‍

3️⃣ Business Expenses You Can Still Deduct

For business owners and self-employed individuals, year-end expense planning is critical. Depending on your accounting method, ordinary and necessary business expenses paid by December 31 may be deductible for 2025.

‍

Common deductible expenses may include:

• Software and subscriptions

• Office supplies and equipment

• Professional and consulting services

• Education and industry-related training

‍

Timing matters — cash versus accrual accounting can determine what qualifies.

‍

4️⃣ Income Deferral vs. Acceleration

The timing of income can significantly affect your tax outcome. Depending on your current income, expected earnings, and tax bracket, it may make sense to:

• Defer income into 2026 if you expect lower income next year, or

• Accelerate income into 2025 if this year’s tax rate is more favorable

‍

This strategy is highly individualized and should be reviewed carefully.

‍

👉 Year-End Tax Help from Vincere Tax

‍

At Vincere Tax, we help individuals, business owners, and partners make confident year-end tax decisions without last-minute stress. Our team focuses on proactive tax planning, compliance, and long-term strategy — not quick fixes.

‍

A short year-end review can help you:

• Identify remaining 2025 tax-saving opportunities

• Avoid common year-end tax mistakes

• Enter the new year with clarity and confidence

‍

December 31 is the deadline — but the right tax planning now can still make a difference.

‍

‍

‍