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Crucial Tax Deadlines for December 2025

As the year draws to a close, it's imperative for taxpayers to prioritize certain financial tasks, including year-end tax planning, tip documentation, and addressing mandatory IRA withdrawals to optimize their 2025 returns.

December 1 - Optimize Your Year-End Tax Strategy

With December comes the final opportunity to execute strategies that can significantly influence your 2025 tax liabilities. Individuals experiencing major life changes like income fluctuations, marital status transitions, or asset sales should schedule a tax planning session. This proactive step could yield considerable financial benefits.

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December 10 - Tip Reporting Requirement

Employees earning tips that surpass $20 in November must report these earnings to their employer using IRS Form 4070 by December 10. Employers are obliged to deduct FICA and income tax from these reported tips along with the regular wages. Should the wages be insufficient to cover these deductions, the shortfall will be reflected in Box 8 of your W-2, necessitating settlement upon filing your tax return.

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December 31 - IRA Withdrawal Deadline

Individuals born before January 1, 1952, must finalize Traditional IRA withdrawals by December 31 to avoid penalties. For those who turned 73 in 2025 (birth dates between January 1 and December 31, 1952), the first required minimum distribution (RMD) pertains to 2025, but can be postponed to April 1, 2026. Be proactive if your financial institution is closed on New Year's Eve.

December 31 - Final Day for 2025 Deductible Payments

Ensure all deductible expenses for the 2025 tax year are paid by December 31, excluding contributions to IRA, SEP, or Keogh plans, which can occur post-year-end.

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Important Considerations: Weekends, Holidays, and Disasters

Should a deadline coincide with a weekend or legal holiday, it automatically extends to the next business day. Additionally, federal disaster declarations can alter these dates. For specific disaster relief information, refer to FEMA and the IRS resources.

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