10 Ways to Save on Taxes in 2025

Managing taxes is a critical part of financial planning, especially for those preparing for retirement. Hosts Joe Anderson CFP and Al Clopine CPA from Your Money, Your Wealth discuss actionable tax strategies to help individuals save money, reduce tax burdens, and optimize their retirement plans.

Controlling Taxes in Retirement

Taxes can be one of the largest expenses in retirement, with the average American paying $533,000 in taxes over their lifetime. Joe and Alan emphasize the importance of proactive tax planning to keep more money in your pocket. Implementing strategies to manage taxes effectively can significantly impact your financial stability in retirement.

Understanding Tax Deductions and Brackets

Knowing your tax deductions and brackets is essential for strategic planning:

• Standard vs. Itemized Deductions: For 2023, the standard deductions are $14,000 for single filers, $30,000 for married filing jointly, and $20,800 for heads of household.
• Tax Brackets: Understanding marginal and effective tax rates is crucial. Current brackets range from 10% to 36%, with changes expected in 2026.
• Future Planning: Anticipate and plan for bracket increases to minimize tax liabilities.

Maximizing Retirement Contributions

Joe and Alan highlight the importance of maximizing retirement contributions:

• Contribution Limits: For 2023, 401(k) contributions are capped at $22,500, with a $7,500 catch-up for those over 50. IRA contributions are limited to $6,500, with a $1,000 catch-up.
• Pre-Tax vs. Roth Contributions: Choose based on your current and expected future tax brackets to maximize savings.
• Solo 401(k) Plans: A valuable option for self-employed individuals to save more for retirement while reducing taxable income.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

HSAs offer a unique triple tax advantage:

• Contributions: Tax-deductible contributions of over $3,000 for individuals and $6,000 for couples, with additional amounts for those over 55.
• Tax-Free Growth: Funds grow tax-free and can be withdrawn tax-free for medical expenses.
• Long-Term Benefits: HSAs serve as an excellent tool for covering healthcare costs in retirement.

Tax Loss and Gain Harvesting

Strategic harvesting of losses and gains can optimize your tax situation:

• Tax Loss Harvesting: Offset gains by selling investments at a loss to reduce taxable income.
• Tax Gain Harvesting: For those in lower brackets, selling investments to realize gains while paying zero tax up to the 12% bracket is a smart strategy.

Roth Conversions

Roth conversions provide long-term tax advantages:

• Tax-Free Growth: Move money from tax-deferred accounts to Roth IRAs by paying taxes now.
• Optimal Timing: Use your current tax bracket to determine the most advantageous time to convert.
• Backdoor Roth IRA: For high-income earners, this strategy allows indirect contributions to Roth IRAs.

Donor-Advised Funds and Charitable Contributions

Donor-advised funds combine charitable giving with tax efficiency:

• Immediate Deduction: Make large contributions in high-income years for immediate tax benefits.
• Flexible Giving: Distribute funds to charities over time while enjoying upfront deductions.

Tax Credits

Tax credits are often more valuable than deductions:

• Examples: Include foreign income tax credits, earned income credits, and education credits.
• Clean Energy Credits: Solar energy credits cover 30% of installation costs, and electric car credits offer up to $7,500.

Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA)

For those with company stock in their 401(k) plans, NUA can reduce tax burdens:

• Cost Basis Taxation: Transfer stock to a brokerage account and pay taxes only on the cost basis.
• Capital Gains: Future gains are taxed at lower capital gains rates, making this a powerful tool for appreciated assets.

Filing Taxes and Payment Plans

Staying compliant with tax laws is crucial:

• Timely Filing: File returns on time to avoid penalties and legal issues.
• Payment Options: If you can’t pay in full, explore IRS payment plans or offers in compromise for manageable solutions.

Conclusion

Proactive tax planning is key to saving money and achieving financial stability in retirement. By understanding deductions, maximizing contributions, leveraging HSAs, and exploring strategies like Roth conversions and donor-advised funds, you can significantly reduce your tax burden. Take control of your taxes today and secure a financially stable retirement future.

Intended for educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

• Investment Advisory and Financial Planning Services are offered through Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

• Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney regarding specific situations.

• Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

• Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

• All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

• Intended for educational purposes only and are not intended as individualized advice or a guarantee that you will achieve a desired result. Before implementing any strategies discussed you should consult your tax and financial advisors.