8 Ways to Prepare Yourself for Year-End — 2018

The end of 2018 is fast approaching and every year there are valuable items to consider. Do you have your items in order for year end? Planning today can help you achieve your desired outcomes. We know schedules can be demanding so here are the key items to consider to prepare yourself and your household for the end of the year. Download checklist.

1. Annual Gift Exclusion
   A person can give up to $15,000 to another person without reducing the donor’s lifetime gift tax exclusion amount. There is no limit on the number of recipients.
2. Charitable Gifts
   Consider whether there are any charitable gifts you wish to make before the end of the year, including gifts of stock and real estate. There may be certain documentation requirements for certain charitable gifts.
3. Retirement Contributions
   Review whether you intend to make additional contributions to your retirement plans. Retirement plans such as traditional IRAs have maximum yearly contribution limits.
4. Minimum Retirement Distributions
   Determine whether you are subject to taking any required minimum distribution from a traditional IRA or other defined contribution plans (e.g. 401(k) plan).
5. Health Savings Account Contributions
   Determine whether you wish to or have the ability to add contributions to your HSA. Similar to IRAs, there are rules and limitations regarding contributions.
6. Health Savings Account Reimbursement
   Determine whether you will seek reimbursement from your HSA for expenses incurred this year.
7. Investment Gains & Losses
   Review your investments regarding potential capital gains or losses.
   
8. Expenses to Document
   Review whether there are any expenses to document, including medical, educational and child care.

Download checklist.

Depending upon your circumstance you may wish to consult with your attorney, financial advisor, accountant, or other professional involved with taxes or estate plan.

Established more than 90 years ago, Quinlivan & Hughes ranks among the oldest and largest law practices in Central Minnesota. The full-service law firm has growing legal teams in the areas of employment law, business law, government law, insurance defense, trust and estate planning, and general litigation. Learn more at Quinlivan.com