By Amy Miller, AFC®

How to Do an End-of-Year Financial Check-In

Reflect, review, and refresh your finances before the new year begins.

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As the year ends, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your finances and make sure you’re set up for success in the new year.


Just like you’d schedule a physical to check in on your health, a financial check-in helps you measure your progress, identify what needs attention, and start the new year feeling organized and confident.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to walk you through your End-of-Year Financial Check-In.

Step 1: Review Your Plan and Adjust for Life Changes

Start by looking at your current spending plan. Does it still fit your life today?

Think about what’s changed this year…maybe you’ve moved, changed jobs, welcomed a new family member, or started paying off debt more aggressively. Life changes often mean financial changes, and your budget should reflect that.

Ask yourself:

  • Are my income and expenses still balanced?
  • Did I meet my savings goals this year?
  • Are there categories where I consistently overspent or underspent?

Step 2: Check Your Credit Reports and Update Passwords

Your credit report is one of the most important financial tools you have. It can impact your ability to borrow, rent, or even get certain jobs.

Before the year ends, visit AnnualCreditReport.com to access your free credit reports from all three major bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

When reviewing your report:

  • Look for incorrect information or accounts you don’t recognize.
  • Dispute any errors right away.
  • Check your credit utilization (the amount you owe compared to your credit limit).

While you’re in review mode, take the opportunity to update and strengthen your passwords, especially for online banking, credit cards, and payment apps. Using strong, unique passwords (and turning on two-factor authentication) helps protect your financial information going into the new year.

Step 3: Assess Your Savings Accounts and Debt Payoff Progress

Next, take stock of your savings.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I have at least $500 saved for emergencies? (If you’re just starting out, that’s a great first goal.)
  • How close am I to my long-term savings goals like buying a home, building retirement savings, or funding education?
  • Can I increase my automatic transfer amount in the new year, even by $10 or $20 per paycheck?

Then, review your debt payoff progress.


If you’ve been working toward paying down credit cards, student loans, or other debts, take a moment to celebrate your progress! Every payment matters!

Step 4: Evaluate Your Insurance Coverage and Beneficiary Designations

Insurance is a key part of protecting what you’ve worked so hard for, but many people forget to review their policies regularly.

Take a few minutes to review:

  • Health insurance: Are your coverage and deductibles still right for your needs?
  • Auto insurance: Could you save by comparing quotes or adjusting coverage?
  • Home or renters insurance: Do you have enough coverage for new belongings or upgrades?
  • Life insurance: Are your beneficiaries up to date?

Life changes like marriage, having children, or changes in employment can mean your coverage and beneficiaries need updating. Make sure the right people and assets are protected.

A Fresh Start

A little reflection now can make a big difference later. Doing an end-of-year financial check-in gives you a clear picture of where you stand and helps you start the new year with focus and confidence.

To make it easier, we’ve created a Printable Financial Check-In Checklist. Use it as a guide to help you review, reset, and plan.

And if you’re ready to take your savings to the next level, take the America Saves Pledge to receive ongoing tips and resources designed to help you stay on track and make progress toward your goals.

Because small, intentional steps, like a financial check-in, can lead to lasting financial confidence.

 

Download & Get Started:

End-of-Year Financial Check-Up Checklist
Take the America Saves Pledge

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