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December 2025 Tax Deadlines and Planning Strategies

As the year draws to a close, it's crucial to focus on tax strategies involving year-end planning, tip reporting, IRA withdrawals, and settling deductible expenses. This guide outlines key deadlines for December 2025 that can significantly impact your tax liabilities and financial planning. Image 1

December 1 - Initiate Year-End Tax Strategies

December is the critical month for implementing final tax strategies to optimize your 2025 tax outcomes. Significant life changes like income fluctuation, marital or dependent status modifications, or property sales necessitate a consultation with your tax advisor to shape your year-end planning effectively.

December 10 - Employees' Tip Reporting

If you are in a tipping profession and received over $20 in tips this past November, ensure you report them to your employer by December 10 using IRS Form 4070. This allows your employer to adjust FICA taxes and implement income tax withholding appropriately. Note that insufficient wages to cover these withholdings will result in notification within Box 8 of your W-2, requiring you to settle it when you file your annual return. Image 2

December 31 - Mandatory IRA Withdrawals

If born before January 1, 1952, ensure this is your final withdrawal day from your Traditional IRA to avoid penalties. If you turned 73 in 2025, you must take your first required distribution by this year-end, although you may delay until April 1, 2026. If your banking institution won't be accessible on December 31, pre-arrange your withdrawal timing accordingly.

December 31 - Deadline for Deductible Expense Payments for 2025

This date marks the last opportunity to pay deductible expenses for the year 2025, excluding IRA, SEP, or Keogh contributions, which are payable beyond December 31, 2025.

December 31 - Final Day of the Calendar Year

For actions that cannot be concluded on December 31, plan to undertake them earlier, as some financial institutions may not operate on the last day of the year.

Weekends & Holidays:
If a deadline happens to be on a weekend or a legal holiday, it automatically shifts to the next operational business day.

Disaster Area Extensions:
In scenarios where your region is declared a disaster area, extensions apply to your due dates. Verify designations and extensions via the following resources:
FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/declarations
IRS: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situationsImage 3

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