Tax Planning for High Earners: 12 Moves to Consider Before Year-End

Tax planning is one of the few areas where small decisions can create big, permanent wins. This list is designed for high earners who want a practical menu of options to review before year-end.

Income + withholding

• Check your withholding/estimated taxes now (not in April).

• If you have RSUs/bonuses, confirm withholding is sufficient—many plans under-withhold by default.

Retirement + benefits

• Max workplace plan contributions if cash flow allows.

• Use an HSA if eligible (triple tax advantage).

• Evaluate Roth vs. pre-tax contributions based on current vs. expected future tax rates.

Investments

• Harvest tax losses where appropriate (and avoid wash sales).

• Review capital gains exposure before selling concentrated positions.

• Consider asset location: which investments belong in taxable vs. retirement accounts.

Charitable giving

• Donate appreciated securities instead of cash when it fits your plan.

• Use a donor-advised fund to “bunch” deductions in high-income years.

Business owners (if applicable)

• Review entity structure and retirement plan options (Solo 401(k), SEP, cash balance).

• Confirm bookkeeping is clean enough to support deductions and planning.

Want this tailored? Tell me (1) W-2 vs business owner, (2) your state, and (3) whether you have equity comp—and I’ll suggest the top 3–5 moves to review first.