Stocking Stuffers

Every year I’m on it in terms of shopping for big gifts. Typically taking advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. I do however leave the “stocking stuffers” until the last minute.

There’s the traditional oranges and candies, but after that I get lost. Another pair of socks? Chapstick? Gift cards?

The end of the year also brings about a time to “wrap-up” your financial goals for 2022. Think of them as your own stocking stuffers.

1. Explore taking a qualified charitable deduction (QCD) from your IRA as your required minimum distribution (RMD).
2. Consider bunching your charitable contributions every few years which may allow itemization in specific years. Giving to a loved one’s favorite charity on their behalf can be a meaningful gift. Print off the donation receipt and put it in a card in their stocking.
3. If you have a high deductible health care plan, establish and contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA). Or if you have an FSA be sure to use it or loose it by 12/31.
4. Contribute to kid’s education fund. Did you know that Target sells 529 gift cards?

My family’s Christmas morning starts off lining up youngest to oldest on the stairs, walking down into the sunlight living room with a fire crackling in the fireplace to Emmylou Harris’ Christmas Times A Comin’. We head straight to our stockings to see what Santa has brought us this year. Hoping you and yours find your stockings stuffed with goodness this holiday season.