The end of the year always sneaks up, doesn’t it? One minute it’s back-to-school, the next it’s holiday chaos, and suddenly we’re promising ourselves that next year will be “the year we get organized.”

But if life has thrown you a few curveballs – like loss, divorce, remarriage, or a big career change – financial organization isn’t just about tidiness. It’s about protection. Because when life changes fast, clarity can make all the difference.

So before the ball drops, let’s talk about what you can do right now to set yourself (and your family) up for stability and greater clarity in the new year.

1. Take Stock of Your Current Reality

Major life transitions change your financial landscape fast. Maybe you’re managing accounts alone for the first time, or you’ve blended finances with a new partner. Before you can plan ahead, you need to see where you stand today.

Start by reviewing:

• Income and expenses Are they still aligned with your new normal?
• Beneficiaries Are they current on your life insurance and retirement accounts?
• Account ownerships Are the right names on every account? (Joint accounts from the past can get tricky fast.)

A year-end check-in can help you avoid unwelcome surprises like an ex-spouse still listed as a beneficiary.

2. Organize Your “What If” Documents

No one likes thinking about the unexpected. But knowing your family could find what they need in an emergency is a priceless gift.

If you’ve ever thought, “I should get my paperwork in order,” now is the time.

Use a tool like our Personal Document Locator -a downloadable checklist and on-demand webinar – to help you gather, label, and store your key information: wills, insurance, passwords, account lists, and contacts.
Because “someday” isn’t on the calendar but today still is.

3. Review Tax Strategies Before December 31st

Whether you’re newly single, recently remarried, or navigating new financial responsibilities, your tax situation has probably shifted.

Before the year ends, consider:

• Charitable contributions that align with your values and reduce taxable income.
• Retirement contributions to maximize tax-deferred savings.
• Gifting strategies if you’re helping adult children or grandkids financially.
  Even small moves before December 31 can create meaningful savings, and who doesn’t love starting the new year ahead?

4. Revisit Your Financial Goals

Transitions often make us rethink what really matters. Maybe your goals aren’t the same as they were a few years ago, and that’s okay.

Ask yourself:

• What do I want life to look like in the next three years?
• What brings me security and peace of mind?
• What do I need to let go of financially and emotionally to move forward?

Goal-setting isn’t about chasing numbers. It’s about designing a life that feels aligned with who you are now.

5. Start Conversations That Matter

Your plan only works if your loved ones understand it. Talk to your family about where important information lives, who to call, and what your wishes are.
If you’ve remarried or are co-parenting, make sure those conversations extend across households. These talks aren’t always easy but they’re always worth it.

Year-end planning isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress.

Whether you’re rebuilding, re-partnering, or reimagining your next chapter, clarity is your greatest gift to yourself and to those you love.

Make this the year you prepare, not react.
Because life can change in an instant—but with the right plan, you’ll always have a way forward.

Download the Personal Document Locator today.

Need further financial guidance?

Book a complimentary no obligation call and we can discuss a plan to help you move forward with confidence.

Donna understands first hand that life has many transitions. Having been widowed suddenly at age 40, reinventing her career, and blending her current family, she understands these unique needs and can give you clarity for moving forward!

Donna (Sephton) Kendrick, CFP®, CDFA®

This blog is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information on the subjects covered. It is not, however, intended to provide specific legal, tax, or other professional advice. For specific professional assistance, the services of an appropriate professional should be sought. A diversified portfolio does not assure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market.

For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice