October: Pumpkin Spice & Tax Planning

Pumpkin spice is back, the leaves are painting the world in golds and reds, and everything feels a little more festive. Fall brings a sense of change and reflection, but amid all the cozy gatherings and family events, it might seem strange to start thinking about taxes.

However, just as the seasons change, so should our financial strategies—and fall is the perfect time to get ahead on tax planning.

Why Bother with Taxes Now?

Financial Clarity: By October, you probably have a good grip on your income, expenses, and any financial changes from earlier in the year. This puts you in a solid position to accurately plan and adjust for tax benefits.

Maximizing Deductions: Fall offers a great window to review potential tax deductions. You can still make charitable contributions, invest in retirement accounts, or make other strategic financial decisions to maximize your deductions before year-end.

Avoid the Last-Minute Scramble: There’s nothing quite like the pressure of a last-minute tax rush—no thanks! Starting now allows for a more relaxed approach, avoiding the stress and the errors that often come with rushing.

Your Fall Tax Planning Checklist

1. Review Your Income: Take a good look at your earnings so far and anticipate any extra income in the final months. This helps determine which tax bracket you’ll fall into and allows for more accurate planning.

2. Assess Big Life Changes: Have you bought a home, started a business, or expanded your family this year? Major life events come with big tax implications, so make sure they’re factored into your planning.

3. Check Retirement Contributions: If you have the ability, consider maxing out contributions to your 401(k), IRA, or other retirement accounts. It’s not just good for your future; it’s also a smart move for reducing your taxable income.

4. Consider Charitable Giving: With the holidays coming up, now is the perfect time to give back through charitable donations. Not only will you be making a difference, but you’ll also benefit from the tax deductions that come with your generosity.

5. Stay Informed on Tax Law Changes: Keeping up with tax code changes can feel tedious, but a little research now can save you from costly mistakes later. Being informed puts you in control of your tax strategy. This year, there's nothing bigger on the horizon than the possible expiration of several provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts & Jobs Act.

6. Consult a Professional: Even if you’re pretty savvy with your finances, sitting down with a tax professional can help you spot things you might have missed. Their expertise can reveal strategies that are customized to your specific situation.

Planning Pays Off

Fall is a season that encourages reflection and gratitude—perfect for pausing and assessing where you stand financially. As you sip that pumpkin spice latte and enjoy the crisp air, consider using this time to get ahead on your taxes.

A little planning now means less stress and more peace of mind when tax season rolls around. And who doesn’t want that? So, embrace the spirit of the season, and let your fall financial planning set the stage for a prosperous, stress-free new year.