November 15, 2023

7 Year-End Tax Moves to Consider for 2023, #175

12 minutes

As the clock runs out for 2023, now is the time to consider your final tax moves of the year. On this episode, I’m breaking down seven tax reduction strategies for 2023 and beyond. Five of these tips need to be executed before the ball drops on New Year’s, so hit play now and start strategizing!

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

Contribute to a state-sponsored 529 Plan [1:47]
Take a tax loss [4:13]
Perform a Roth conversion on your retirement account [4:58]
Set up a 401k or profit-sharing plan as a small business [8:18]
Purchase a vehicle for your business [9:36]
Contribute to a traditional IRA [10:39]
Fully fund your HSA [11:14]

Contribute to education and save on taxes

As this year draws to a close, one savvy tax move is contributing to a state-sponsored 529 plan. With over 30 states offering tax deductions for such contributions, it's a strategy worth exploring. In my home state of Connecticut I can deduct up to $5,000 per person annually on my state income tax, potentially saving a couple up to $10,000. What's interesting is that even if I plan to use the funds shortly thereafter, I can still take advantage of the tax deduction without a mandatory holding period.

Moreover, exploring other states' plans is an option, especially for those residing in Arizona, Alaska, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, and Pennsylvania, where deductions are allowed regardless of the chosen state plan. It's a smart financial move that not only supports education savings but also maximizes tax benefits.

Considerable savings with Roth conversions

Roth conversions are another strategic move to reduce taxes as you save for retirement. Starting at age 73 (or 75 as of 2033) retirees are obligated to take out a required minimum distribution (RMD), a percentage of their account set by the IRS. To proactively manage this, you can explore a Roth conversion. This is where money is withdrawn from a pre-tax retirement account, taxed at the current rate, and then transferred to a Roth IRA or Roth 401k.

Timing is crucial, and opportune moments include years of lower income, such as during job transitions or early retirement before reaching the RMD age. Converting at the 12% tax bracket, which applies to taxable income up to $45,000 for singles or $90,000 for married couples filing jointly, allows for significant tax savings. This strategy is particularly beneficial for those with sizable IRAs not planned for immediate use, offering a way to strategically navigate future tax implications. Listen to this episode for more year-end tax-saving tips!

Resources Mentioned