Get started on your financial planning in 2026.

 

The start of a new year is the perfect time to look ahead and focus on your 2026 financial planning. Reviewing your goals and plans early can help you stay on track, make more intentional decisions, and reduce stress as tax season or year-end approaches. A proactive approach gives you more time, flexibility, and control over your financial outcomes.

Below are five financial planning tips to help you get a jump start on your finances this year.

 

1. Start 2026 Tax Planning Early

Beginning your tax planning early in the year helps ensure you’re prepared well before deadlines arrive. Rather than scrambling to make last-minute decisions in hopes of achieving the most tax-advantaged outcome, early planning allows for thoughtful, strategic choices and a smoother, lower-stress tax season.

Some tax-related decisions to consider include:

• When and how to approach charitable giving
• Whether your tax withholdings need adjustment
• If you need to make quarterly estimated tax payments
• When and how to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), if age-appropriate
• Reviewing 401(k) contributions, including whether Roth or traditional contributions make the most sense

These and other considerations are important to think about ahead of tax season. For assistance with these and other tax planning areas and financial planning decisions, talk to your Fee-only Certified Financial Planning™ Professional.

 

2. Consider Contributions to Accounts with an April 15th Deadline

Even though the 2025 calendar year is over, there may still be opportunities to impact your 2025 taxes. IRAs (Traditional, Roth, or SEP) and HSAs allow contributions to be made up until the tax filing deadline in the following year (in this case, April 15, 2026). These contributions can affect last year’s taxable income and overall tax outcome, so it’s important to review eligibility, limits, and which account type makes the most sense for your situation.

Evaluate your past and future contributions to ensure they are aligned with your retirement goals and consult your financial planner about making changes as needed.

 

3. Review Your Investments

Markets change, and so do your goals. It’s important to review whether your investments are still aligned with your objectives, time horizon, and risk tolerance. Rebalancing or other adjustments may be required.

If changes are needed, it is a good idea to work with your financial planner to ensure the rebalancing is done correctly and that appropriate adjustments are made. This helps ensure your portfolio continues to support where you are today and where you want to be in the future.

 

4. Check Your Emergency Fund

An adequate emergency fund is a foundational part of any financial plan. Review your current savings to ensure you have enough set aside to cover unexpected expenses or income disruptions in the coming year. This can provide peace of mind and prevent short-term surprises from derailing long-term goals.

 

5. Revisit Your Goals and Financial Plan

Finally, take time to ask yourself: Do I have a clear plan to reach my financial goals? Whether you’re focused on retirement, saving for a major purchase, managing cash flow, or building long-term wealth, having a defined plan—and reviewing it regularly—can make a meaningful difference.

 

We would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the tax planning and financial planning strategies that are best suited for your unique situation. The above information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered advice. Click here to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Fee-only Certified Financial Planning™ Professional.