7 Year-End Money Moves to Make Before 2026
Year-end planning is essential—it gives you a solid foundation for the year ahead. When you take time to assess where you stand today, you gain clarity about your strengths, areas that need attention, and the best starting point for reaching (or continuing to pursue) your goals.
Below are seven key areas to review now to set yourself up for a stronger financial 2026:
- Review Your Cash Flow
Take a close look at what’s coming in, what’s going out, and where it’s going. Assess how much liquid cash you have set aside for emergencies, unexpected expenses, and short-term goals. Consider keeping these funds in high-yield savings accounts, money markets, or similar vehicles.
- Revisit the “Big 3” Expenses
Housing, transportation, and food can easily consume 50–60% (or more) of your income. Review your spending in each category and identify opportunities to reduce costs—whether that’s through adjusting lifestyle choices, renegotiating contracts, or tightening your budget.
- Don’t Leave Free Money on the Table
If your employer offers a 401(k) match, be sure you’re contributing enough to receive the full match by December 31—this is essentially free money. If you have the capacity to increase contributions before year-end, do it.
- Know Where You Stand Financially
List your liabilities (what you owe) and your assets (what you own).
- Liabilities: Organize debts by interest rate so you can prioritize paying off the highest-rate balances first.
- Assets: Include investment and retirement accounts, plus physical assets like your home or car.
Total each list, then subtract liabilities from assets to determine your net worth. Your long-term goal: grow net worth by increasing assets and reducing liabilities.
- Review and Renegotiate Recurring Bills
Reach out to service providers—cable, insurance, credit card companies, etc.—to see whether you qualify for lower rates, promotional offers, or fee reductions. A quick phone call or online chat can result in meaningful savings.
- Maximize Tax-Advantaged Accounts
Consider contributing to accounts that offer tax-free or tax-deferred growth:
- Roth IRA: If your income is below $165,000 (single) or $246,000 (married), you can contribute up to $7,000—or $8,000 if you’re 50 or older.
- Health Savings Account (HSA): If you have a high-deductible health plan ($1,700 single / $3,400 family deductible), individuals can contribute $4,400 and families up to $8,750.
Both Roth IRAs and HSAs grow tax-deferred and allow tax-free withdrawals under qualifying circumstances.
- Set Your Financial Goals for 2026
Identify a few meaningful, high-impact goals. Too many goals often lead to little progress, so choose the ones most important to you. Then outline a plan: can you adjust your budget to free up funds? Will you need extra income? A clear plan speeds up your progress and boosts your chances of success.
There you have it—my top seven year-end moves to help you start 2026 on strong financial footing. Taking action now means you’ll head into the new year with clarity, confidence, and momentum.
