Before the Year Ends: 5 Smart Tax Moves to Make in November
- mslatashacollins
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Why November Matters
Most people wait until February to think about taxes.
By then, it’s often too late to fix mistakes or take advantage of smart deductions.
November is your window of opportunity — especially if this year brought:
A big life or financial change
Multiple income streams (W-2 + 1099)
Delays in filing prior year returns
An IRS notice or unresolved tax issue
At Collins & Collins Tax Advisors, we specialize in helping clients get ahead, not just catch up. Here are 5 high-impact moves you can make this month to protect your peace of mind and your pockets.
1. Check Your Withholding & Estimated Payments
Surprised by a tax bill last year? November is your chance to correct course.
Review your latest pay stub to see how much tax has been withheld.
If you’re self-employed, double-check your Q1–Q3 estimated payments.
You may still have time to make a Q4 payment before January to avoid penalties.
Bonus Tip: Use the IRS Withholding Estimator for a quick checkup.
2. Max Out Your Retirement Contributions
Every dollar you contribute to a 401(k), 403(b), IRA, or HSA can reduce your taxable income.
If you’ve had a strong income year, this is one of the cleanest ways to save on taxes and invest in your future.
⏳ Deadlines:
401(k) contributions must be made by December 31
IRA and HSA contributions can be made up to April 15, 2026 — but planning now gives you flexibility
3. Organize & Digitize Tax Documents Early
Don’t wait for the January paper flood.
Start gathering:
IRS letters or notices
Receipts for charitable giving
Business expenses if self-employed
Prior year tax returns (especially if you’ve changed accountants)
Medical or education expenses that may qualify for deductions
Pro Tip: Use Google Drive, Dropbox, or a client portal to stay organized — especially if multiple people are involved (spouse, CPA, trustee, etc.)
4. Clean Up Past Tax Years
If you:
Missed filing in previous years
Have an IRS payment plan or back taxes
Recently received a notice or lien
…now is the time to get proactive. Resolution is possible — and you have more options the earlier you act.
At Collins & Collins, we specialize in getting you back on track with judgment-free support and a strategic plan.
5. Book a Tax Planning Session
Big financial decisions deserve tax foresight, not hindsight.
Book a session if you’ve:
Sold or plan to sell a home
Received an inheritance
Had a child or started supporting aging parents
Changed jobs or income sources
Started or closed a business
We can review your year, project your tax liability, and recommend moves that make a difference before December 31.
Final Thought
Your April tax bill is written now — in November and December.
Don’t wait to find out what you owe. Let’s take action while it still matters.
How We Help
At Collins & Collins Tax Advisors, we offer:
Tax resolution and IRS representation
Compliance support for individuals and small business owners
Estate and trust-related tax guidance
Strategic year-end planning calls
Schedule your year-end session:
(314) 562-2209
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