Deadline: December 31, 2026 for most tax-saving moves

Year-End Planning · 2026

Year-End Tax Planning 2026

The tax moves you make before December 31 can save you thousands. Use our free calculators to optimize your year-end tax strategy.

6 curated tools7 expert tips

100% free · No sign-up required · Instant results

$2,100

Average tax savings from year-end planning

42%

Taxpayers who miss year-end deductions

$23,500

401(k) contribution limit (2026)

$3,000/year

Capital loss deduction limit

Recommended Tools for Year-End Tax Planning 2026

Each tool below is selected for this season with a specific reason why it matters right now.

Tax Bracket Calculator

See which tax brackets your income falls into with effective rate

Why now: See exactly where you stand in the 2026 tax brackets

Capital Gains Calculator

Calculate capital gains tax on investments and property

Why now: Harvest losses or time gains for optimal tax treatment

Income Tax Calculator

Estimate US federal income tax with brackets, FICA, and take-home pay

Why now: Estimate your total 2026 tax bill before year-end

401(k) Calculator

Project your 401(k) retirement savings with employer matching, catch-up contributions, and growth analysis

Why now: Max out contributions before the 2026 deadline

Estate Tax Calculator

Estimate federal and state estate tax on an inheritance

Why now: Review estate plans and gift tax exclusions before year end

Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate self-employment tax and quarterly estimated payments

Why now: Finalize estimated tax payments for Q4

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Tips & Advice

Max out retirement contributions

The 2026 401(k) limit is $23,500 ($31,000 if 50+). Check your contributions and increase them for remaining paychecks if possible.

Harvest tax losses

Sell losing investments to offset capital gains. You can deduct up to $3,000 in net losses against ordinary income.

Bunch charitable deductions

If you are close to the standard deduction threshold, consider bunching two years of donations into one year to itemize.

Use your FSA balance

Flexible spending account funds typically expire December 31 or March 15. Schedule medical appointments or buy eligible items before the deadline.

Review Required Minimum Distributions

If you are 73 or older, ensure you have taken your RMD to avoid a 25% penalty on the amount not withdrawn.

Defer or accelerate income

If you expect to be in a lower bracket next year, defer bonuses or invoicing. If higher, accelerate income into this year.

Make qualified charitable distributions

If you are 70.5+, donating directly from your IRA (up to $105,000) satisfies your RMD without increasing taxable income.

Key Statistics