Last Chance: Year-End Tax Planning Strategies that will Vanish after December 31

Tax season isn’t just about filing forms—it’s about strategy. Tax preparation happens after the year ends, when your options are limited and the opportunity has passed. Tax planning, on the other hand, happens now—while you still have the power to make decisions that reduce your tax bill and strengthen your financial position.

The clock is ticking. Many of the most powerful tax-saving opportunities disappear when the calendar flips to January. To maximize deductions, reduce your tax liability, and position yourself for a strong start in 2026, strategies must be implemented by December 31, 2025. Waiting until tax season is too late—these moves require action now.

The difference? Preparation reacts. Planning saves. Once January 1 arrives, most opportunities vanish. That’s why these strategies must be implemented by December 31, 2025. Waiting until tax season means leaving money on the table. We are offering a complementary Tax Optimization Analysis ($300 value complimentary until January 31, 2026).

At Ayanna Financials, we complied the essential year-end tax strategies available to implement before the end of the year. Use this checklist to make sure you don’t miss a single opportunity. Every item below is time-sensitive and can have a significant impact on your bottom line.

Top Strategies for Small Businesses

a professional business team meeting

Section 179 Deduction – Deduct up to $1,220,000 for qualifying equipment placed in service before 12/31.
Bonus Depreciation – 60% bonus depreciation applies in 2025; it phases out after 2026.
Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction – Up to 20% deduction for pass-through income.
Defer Revenue – For cash tax-basis businesses, consider receiving income after 12/31 to decrease 2025 revenues.
Prepay Expenses – Accelerate deductible expenses like rent and supplies.
Optimize Payroll – For S-Corp business owners, ensure reasonable compensation and consider year-end bonuses to balance salary vs. distributions for tax efficiency.
Max Out Retirement Contributions – SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, or Solo 401(k) for tax-deferred growth.
Entity Optimization – Review your business structure (LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp) to ensure it aligns with your tax strategy and future TCJA changes.


Top Strategies for Individuals

person tax trouble with tax papers

Maximize Retirement Contributions – 401(k): $23,000 (+$7,500 catch-up if over 50). IRA: $7,000 (+$1,000 catch-up).
Charitable Giving – Consider donor-advised funds or bunching contributions.
Harvest Capital Losses – Offset gains and reduce taxable income.
Fund 529 Plans – For education savings and state tax benefits.
Contribute to HSAs – $4,150 (individual) or $8,300 (family) for tax-free growth.


What’s Changing After 2025? TCJA Sunsets to Watch

  • Individual tax rates revert to pre-TCJA levels.

  • Standard deduction drops significantly.

  • Child Tax Credit reduced from $2,000 to $1,000.

  • SALT deduction cap may be removed.

  • Estate and gift tax exemption falls from $13.61M to about $6M.


Act Now!

tax clock with blue board

The clock is ticking. Take advantage of our complimentary Tax Optimization Analysis by December 15 to lock in these 2025 deductions and credits and prepare for the changes ahead.

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