9 Smart Money Moves to Make Before the Holidays

As the days get shorter and calendars fill up with holiday plans, it’s easy to push financial tasks aside — especially when they don’t feel urgent yet. But for retirees, November is the sweet spot to take control of your finances before the holiday rush and year-end deadlines collide.

From tax-saving opportunities to income planning and Medicare decisions, now is the time to act — while there’s still breathing room.

Here are 9 smart money moves to make before the holidays take over, so you can head into December — and 2026 — feeling confident, secure, and in control.

1. Take Care of Your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

If you’re age 73 or older — or you’ve inherited a retirement account — you likely owe Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from your IRA or 401(k) this year.

Don’t wait until December. If you miss the deadline, the IRS can hit you with a 25% penalty on the amount you didn’t withdraw.

Tip: If you don’t need the income, consider a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) — a direct donation from your IRA to a charity, which satisfies your RMD and keeps that income off your tax return.

2. Consider a Roth Conversion Before Tax Rates Go Up

Thinking long-term? Roth conversions can be a powerful tool. They allow you to move money from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, paying taxes now for future tax-free growth and withdrawals.

Current tax brackets are set to rise after 2025. November is a great time to see if a partial Roth conversion fits into your tax strategy for this year — while there’s still time to calculate and adjust.

Tip: Convert just enough to avoid bumping into a higher tax bracket.

3. Use Investment Gains or Losses Strategically

The market had its share of volatility this year. That gives retirees a few smart opportunities:

• Tax-loss harvesting: Sell losing investments to offset taxable gains or income.
  
• Tax-gain harvesting: If your income is low this year, you may pay 0% capital gains tax on some profits.
  

Work with your advisor or tax professional to make sure any moves align with your broader portfolio and retirement income plan.

4. Make Tax-Efficient Charitable Gifts Now

Planning to give during the holidays? Doing it early — and smartly — can benefit both your cause and your retirement strategy.

Options include:

• QCDs from your IRA (for those 70½+)
  
• Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) for larger, strategic giving
  
• Appreciated stock donations, which avoid capital gains taxes
  

Tip: Giving early helps nonprofits and charities plan better — and gives you time to structure the most effective gift.

5. Spend Down Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Still have an old FSA from a part-time job or pre-retirement health plan? Many of these are “use-it-or-lose-it” by year-end, with some offering grace periods or limited carryovers.

Use November to schedule appointments or make qualified purchases like eyeglasses, dental work, or prescriptions.

Tip: Double-check your plan’s rules — not all FSAs have the same deadlines or rollover options.

6. Review Medicare Plans Before December 7

If you’re enrolled in Medicare, the Open Enrollment Period ends December 7. November is your last calm window to:

• Review your Part D prescription coverage
  
• Compare Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare
  
• Confirm your doctors and prescriptions are still covered affordably
  

Even if you’re happy with your current plan, a quick annual review could save you hundreds — or even thousands — next year.

7. Review Your Holiday Budget Now — Before Spending Begins

With family gatherings, gift-giving, and travel ahead, now is the time to build a holiday spending plan that aligns with your retirement goals.

Ask yourself:

• What holiday expenses are coming up?
  
• Do they fit within your regular monthly income?
  
• Do I need to make any adjustments to cover extras?
  

Planning now helps you avoid emotional overspending in December — and protects your long-term savings.

8. Update Your Estate Plan & Beneficiaries

The holidays are more than just a time for giving — they’re a time for reflection. Use November to check your legacy documents:

• Are your wills, trusts, and powers of attorney up to date?
  
• Do your beneficiaries reflect your current wishes?
  
• Are your assets titled correctly for easy transfer?
  

Tip: Holiday family time may open space for deeper conversations about your wishes, values, and long-term plans.

9. Schedule a Year-End Financial Review

Your finances deserve a moment before year-end. November is the best time to meet with your financial advisor to:

• Review your 2025 investment performance
  
• Finalize tax strategy before it’s too late
  
• Adjust retirement income needs for 2026
  
• Stress-test your plan for inflation, healthcare costs, or market shifts
  

Once the turkey is in the oven, it’s easy to forget all about finances. A quick meeting now can help you close out the year strong.

Take Control Before the Holiday Hustle

The window for meaningful financial decisions is open now — not in late December. Waiting until the last minute often means missed opportunities, rushed choices, or avoidable tax bills. Use November to take deliberate steps while you still have time to act without pressure. That way, you’ll enter the holidays — and the new year — with a clear plan and fewer financial surprises.

📞 Want Help Taking Action?

If you’re ready to get your year-end financial strategy in place — from RMDs and Roth conversions to Medicare reviews and charitable giving — now is the time to act.

Call Barbara Swiatek at 719.597.2179 to schedule your year-end review.
Together, we’ll walk through your retirement checklist and ensure your plan is aligned, efficient, and ready for 2026.