Milestones or life-altering moments have a way of impacting everything, even things you might not expect. A wedding, a divorce, or retirement can reshape your day-to-day life in ways that may feel joyful, difficult, or bittersweet. Along with the emotional impact, there's a practical reality to consider: each and every one of these milestones can change the way you file your taxes. Knowing what to expect and planning ahead helps you avoid costly mistakes and gives you space to focus on the transition itself.

As the year begins to wind down, now is the perfect time to take stock of your finances so you can make strategic moves that reduce your tax liability - or could even turn a potential payment into a refund. The single most powerful way to optimize your financial outlook and set yourself up for success in the coming year is to invest in proactive year-end tax planning, alongside decorating and getting ready for the holidays. If you want to make sure you're prepared before tax season hits, here's a closer look at how to meet your goals.