Kiplinger: “21 Money Moves Smart People Are Making Before 2026”

Kiplinger, Dec. 3, 2025 — “Now that December has arrived, you likely have a year-end financial review marked on your calendar. Better block out extra time — this typically routine task is far more urgent this year,” writes reporter in today’s article in Kiplinger. “Recent tax legislation, including the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), has made the process of figuring out deductions and other tax breaks much more complex. You are also contending with a lofty stock market that is looking increasingly risky, a looming surge in health care costs and nonstop economic developments.”

Penelope explains that all makes it especially important to take a clear-eyed look at your financial picture before the clock runs out on 2025 to ensure you’ve taken full advantage of money-saving opportunities, avoided potential tax land mines, and put yourself in the best position for 2026.

Some of the developments that will require your attention and planning before December 31 include:

  • Rising health care costs may pose one of the biggest challenges you’ll face in 2026, so the stakes are higher than usual for choosing coverage during this year’s open-enrollment season.
  • Many Affordable Care Act enrollees could see huge increases in their premiums following the scheduled expiration of a subsidy for marketplace plans at year-end. Lawmakers have yet to pass legislation that extends the subsidies.
  • Premiums and out-of-pocket costs will also climb for those relying on employer and Medicare coverage, with some plans changing benefits and others closing down.

“There are a lot more moving pieces to consider, as well as new opportunities you don’t want to miss,” says Marguerita Cheng, a certified financial planner in Gaithersburg, Md.

Click here to find the steps financial advisers suggest you take now.