If you feel like someone took 2020 and tossed it in a blender, pressed start, and threw everything into chaos, you’re not alone.
You’ve likely experienced many canceled plans, work adjustments, complicated family decisions, and (as if that weren’t enough) some financial challenges.
We don’t know what the near future will bring in regards to COVID-19, the local economy, and the markets.
So, the question becomes, How do you prepare for retirement when there is so much unknown?
How can you look ahead to 2021 when you don’t even know what next week will bring?
Here are 6 financial actions that could make all the difference as we near the end of 2020.
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Even if your income hasn’t been affected by COVID-19, it’s likely your spending has. Whenever you experience life changes, it’s wise to take another look at your budget to make sure your spending is in line with your goals and shift things around to manage your priorities. For example, this year might have shown you the importance of having financial margin and now you want to double down to get rid of debt. There’s also the fact that many of your daily expenses have probably experienced some ups and downs. You might be spending less on gas and eating out, but more on groceries, masks, and online shopping, not to mention that prices on many basic items have increased. If you have experienced income changes, make sure you factor those in and adjust your spending accordingly. Go into 2021 with a rock-solid budget that helps you feel financially secure.
Don’t be afraid to set new goals for 2021. Look at your new budget and priorities and find ways to work toward your savings goals. Get creative with things you want to accomplish next year. You may not be able to take that international trip you’ve been dreaming about, but you can get your family together for a local vacation or refocus your energy on tackling a home renovation. If you’re planning to retire, relocate, sell your business, or make any other big financial moves, identify NOW what changes you can make to smooth the transition.
Now is the time to ensure that you have enough money set aside in your emergency fund to cover 3-6 months of necessary living expenses or unexpected extras. These savings should be easily accessible, but you also want that money to be working for you. Research different savings vehicles that will keep your money liquid but also pay a competitive interest rate.
And while things seem uncertain, don’t shrink back from your savings goals or try to wait things out. Consistency and compound interest make all the difference in the growth of your investments. If possible, consider maxing out your contributions to your 401(k) by the end of the year to make the most of your retirement savings. For 2020, you can contribute as much as $19,500 (or $26,000 if you are age 50 or older). You might also consider contributing to a Roth IRA. In 2020, you can put up to $6,000 in any type of IRA. If you are over age 50, that amount goes up to $7,000 thanks to the $1,000 catch-up contribution. Finish the year strong by investing in your future!
Along with updating your budget, take another look at your estate plan and insurance coverage. If you took the time and energy to create an estate plan, check it periodically to ensure all the documents are up to date and no major details have changed. If you change a beneficiary in one place, such as a life insurance policy, make sure you are consistent with your other documents to avoid confusion.
Your insurance needs may change as the year goes by, so periodically review your coverages and designated beneficiaries to bring them up to date to reflect your current financial situation. For example, if you paid off debt, you may not need as much life insurance coverage since your family’s liabilities have decreased. You might also want to evaluate your need for other types of insurance, such as long-term care or disability insurance.
The end of the year is always a good time to make your charitable contributions so you can benefit from itemizing the deduction on your tax return, but this year in particular many worthy organizations are struggling to make ends meet.
Support local nonprofits or charities that share your values, and make the end of this year brighter for someone else. You can even donate appreciated securities, which may help you avoid paying taxes on the gains.
If gifting is one of your long-term financial goals, it’s never too early to start planning for the legacy you want to leave your loved ones without sharing a good portion of it with Uncle Sam.
Each year you can give up to $15,000 to as many people as you wish without those gifts counting against your lifetime exemption of $11.58 million. If you’ve yet to give this year or haven’t reached the $15,000 limit for a particular recipient, make sure you do this by December 31st.
If this year has taught us anything, it’s that we all need each other’s support. Before the year is over, seek out a financial professional who can take an objective look at your financial situation and help you create a plan to take your finances to the next level regardless of what comes your way in the coming months and year.
In a time of heightened emotions, dramatic headlines, and a temptation to panic, it helps to know you have someone in your court watching out for your money and making sure you are on track to your ideal future.
Our team at Rubino & Liang Wealth Partners would love to partner with you on your financial journey. Get started now by calling (617) 630-8787 or contacting us online to request your complimentary 365 Retirement Plan consultation.