END-OF-YEAR MONEY CHECKLIST

As we approach the end of the year, consider these actions to help create the foundation for financial success in 2022:

Review spending for the year. Comparing your actual spending with budgeted amounts will help you plan spending for the coming year. For the upcoming year, track spending with an app, spreadsheet file, Google doc, or a written record.

Use flexible spending account funds. Be sure to spend any money in a flexible spending account on qualified medical expenses before the end of the year, or those funds might be lost. However, due to COVID-19, you may be allowed to roll over the full balance into next year. Contact your benefits department to see if you qualify.

Donate to charity. This will not only create a tax saving, but will also help people in your community and around the world.

Create a backup plan. Review the beneficiaries on your financial accounts. You should have a durable power of attorney to handle your financial activities if you are not able to do so. A health-care proxy (power of attorney) is someone to speak on your behalf regarding medical care when you are not able to do so. A will sets how your assets will be distributed after you die.

Consider increased retirement contributions. With increased limits for 2022, plan to increase the amount set aside for long-term financial security while reducing current taxes.

Conduct a life audit. Start with identifying your short-term and long-term goals with sticky notes or index cards. Then, sort your goals by category, such as personal development, work/career, financial, travel, family, community service, and health. Next, organize within a category based on time of accomplishment, which might include: now/soon, always/everyday, later this year, the next year or two, and someday. Take photos of your notes, place them in a visible location, or use an app such as OneNote as a reminder of these targets. Finally, reflect on your goals by determining why you have certain goals and what actions you need to take. Be sure to set deadlines. Also consider how your goals relate to the type of life you desire for yourself. Do your goals reflect your beliefs, values, work situation, and personal relationships?

For additional information on year-end financial planning, click here.

Teaching Suggestions

Have students talk to others about recommended financial actions to take before the end of the year.
Have students create an action plan and timeline for a specific goal.

Discussion Questions

What attitudes, behaviors, and circumstances might restrict a person from taking certain year-end actions?
Describe information sources and personal contacts that might be used to obtain guidance for achieving a specific goal.