6 Smart Financial Moves to Wrap Up 2025 Right
As the year winds down and the holidays approach, it’s natural to reflect on what’s gone well, what could use a little work, and what you want to achieve in the year ahead. The same mindset applies to your finances. December is the perfect time to pause, take a clear look at where you stand, and make a few intentional updates that can help you start 2026 strong.
A little financial housekeeping now can go a long way toward reducing stress later. Maybe that means adjusting your savings goals, reviewing your insurance, or updating estate documents. Think of it as clearing financial clutter so you can move into the new year with focus and direction.
Here are six practical ways to strengthen your financial footing before the ball drops.
1. Take a Fresh Look at What’s Changed
A lot can happen in a year. Maybe you changed jobs, moved into a new home, welcomed a new family member, or watched a child head off to college. You might even be thinking about retirement or stepping in to help your parents with their care. Every one of these moments has a ripple effect on your finances.
Now is the time to pause and think about how those changes affect your goals. Has your household income shifted? Do your insurance policies still make sense? Are your savings and investments aligned with what life looks like today, not last year?
Taking stock of life’s transitions helps you stay ahead of potential challenges rather than playing catch-up later. When you make small adjustments now, you set yourself up for greater stability, less stress, and a smoother path into the new year.
2. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Insurance might not be the most exciting topic, but it plays a big role in protecting your future. As the year comes to a close, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure your coverage still fits your life. Maybe your family’s health needs have changed, or you’ve moved to a new area with different risks. Even small updates can make a big difference when the unexpected happens.
Healthcare costs continue to rise, with the average person spending about $7,871 out of pocket last year under a typical employer plan. ${^1}$ That alone is a good reason to double-check your benefits, especially during open enrollment season.
Take this opportunity to review your health, home, and life insurance policies to see if they still provide the protection you need. A quick review now can save you time, stress, and money later and help you start the new year with confidence that your family is covered.
3. Give Your Savings a Quick Checkup
Your savings are what keep everything else in your financial life steady. They help you handle life’s surprises, reach your goals, and feel a little more at ease about the future.
This time of year is perfect for checking in on your progress. Are you setting aside enough for your goals, whether that’s retirement, college expenses, or a family getaway? Do your savings still reflect what matters most to you right now?
You don’t have to make huge changes to see results. Even small adjustments, like adding a bit more to your emergency fund or increasing your retirement contributions, can make a real difference over time. And if you received a raise or bonus this year, consider setting aside part of it before it disappears into everyday spending.
The point is not perfection, but progress. A few thoughtful moves now can help you step into the new year feeling more organized and confident about what’s ahead.
4. Update Your Estate Documents
When life changes, your estate documents should change with it. A new home, a marriage, a grandchild, or even a shift in your health can all affect how you’d want your affairs handled. Taking a few minutes now to review your paperwork can prevent confusion or stress for your loved ones later.
Start with the basics. Make sure your will, healthcare directive, and power of attorney still reflect your wishes. Then check that your beneficiaries on retirement accounts and life insurance policies are up to date. These small steps can make a big difference in making sure everything goes where you intend it to.
If you have adult children or grandchildren, this can also be a good time to talk with them about financial responsibility. Many younger people admit they never learned much about money growing up. Showing them how you stay organized can be a powerful example—and a meaningful way to start the conversation about planning for the future.
${^1}$ The Milliman Medical Index, May 27, 2025 https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/2025-milliman-medical-index
5. Check In on Your Retirement Approach
As the year wraps up, it’s a good time to take a quick look at how your retirement savings are coming along. Think of it as your annual progress check. Are you still on track with the goals you’ve set for yourself? Have any of your plans or priorities shifted?
Your retirement income may come from a mix of places like Social Security, a 401(k) or IRA, a pension, or even rental or investment income. Take a moment to make sure your contributions and investment mix still make sense for your timeline and comfort level.
If you received a raise or a little extra income this year, consider putting some of it toward your retirement savings before it disappears into daily spending. A few small adjustments now can have a big impact later. And if you’re not sure where to start, that’s what we’re here for. We can help you review your options and find ways to make your money work harder for your future.
6. Plan for What’s Next
The end of the year is a natural time to pause and think about what comes next. What do you want your financial life to look like in 2026? Maybe it’s saving a little more each month, paying down debt, or getting more organized with your overall strategy. Whatever your goals are, this is the moment to set them in motion.
Start by jotting down your top priorities for the new year. You might want to revisit your budget, check in on your insurance coverage midyear, or schedule a meeting with a financial professional to talk through new ideas. The key is to be intentional. When your financial decisions match your goals, it becomes easier to move through the year with purpose and confidence.
Moving Forward Together
Year-end planning isn’t about closing the books. It’s about giving yourself a strong foundation for everything that’s ahead. A few thoughtful steps now can help you start 2026 feeling organized, focused, and ready for what’s next.
If you’d like a little guidance as you set your goals for the year ahead, Wilian Financial is here to help.
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Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. The information provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as specific financial, investment, or tax advice. Individual circumstances vary, and you should consult with a qualified financial or tax professional before making any financial decisions.
