Given the permanence of many of the tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, 2026 presents an opportunity to recalibrate financial, tax, philanthropic and estate plans with greater clarity and confidence. Our 2025 Annual Planning Checklist is an expansive set of considerations and opportunities relating to tax, estate, business, and philanthropic issues, and we hope it will serve as a helpful guide for year-end planning discussions, as well as setting the stage for strategies to be employed in 2026 and beyond.
Tax Planning
Tighter itemized deduction rules expected in 2026 make 2025 a meaningful moment to revisit your income tax strategy. Opportunities such as accelerating charitable giving, evaluating Roth conversions, or reviewing capital gains may help strengthen your long-term position. Clients over age seventy-and-a-half may also benefit from expanded qualified charitable distribution limits.
Estate & Gift Strategy
Now is a good time to reassess annual gifting, consider transfers of appreciating assets, and ensure trust structures continue to reflect your intentions. Families with international ties should also be mindful of evolving residency and reporting requirements. Strong risk management—including insurance and asset-protection strategies—remains a vital part of the planning conversation.
Financial Wellness & Business Considerations
A review of cash reserves, interest rates, deposit insurance, and existing loans can help confirm your financial foundation is working as intended. Business owners and executives will want to be aware of several 2025 updates, including changes to corporate charitable deductions, ongoing depreciation opportunities, and updated wage-reporting procedures.
Philanthropy & Legacy
As values and family dynamics evolve, so should your approach to legacy and giving. Revisit your philanthropic structures, ensure governance documents remain current, and consider ways to involve the next generation.
As always, our Strategic Advisory team is here to help with any and all of these items.
Annual Planning Checklist
This high-level checklist covers many common questions and issues that we plan to tackle with clients. This list both highlights pragmatic items typically covered at year-end and reflects on annual best practices and considerations. We hope you find it useful.
Download your copy of the Annual Planning Checklist
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