December deadlines
These must happen by December 31:
- 401(k) elective deferrals (paycheck-funded by 12/31)
- Roth conversions (can't be unwound after year-end)
- Tax-loss harvesting in taxable accounts
- Charitable gifts (cash, stock, or qualified charitable distributions)
- RMDs from inherited and retirement accounts
- Section 179 equipment purchases (must be placed in service)
Pushed to April
IRA contributions, HSA contributions, SEP and Solo 401(k) employer contributions can all be made until the tax filing deadline (with extension) for the prior year.
Have a specific situation?
Call the office and a human answers.
Common questions
- What's the biggest December move?
- Depends on income. Low income = Roth conversion. High income = tax-loss harvesting + charitable bunching. Business owners = Section 179 or accelerated retirement contributions.