As we settle into the last quarter of the year, your mind may be on a different kind of list. But December 31 marks an important deadline for many year-end tax moves, including charitable contributions, so it makes sense to create a tax to-do list and execute each item before you ring in the new year.

We’ve started one for you, but since we can’t touch on all of the available tax-advantaged opportunities, it’s a good idea to contact your tax advisor to learn exactly which strategies can benefit you the most.

HARVEST LOSSES

If you’re looking to sell securities to rebalance or take advantage of other opportunities, consider offsetting potential capital gains taxes by selling underperformers as well.

TIMING INCOME AND DEDUCTIONS

Let’s discuss accelerating or deferring income and deductions to reduce your tax liability.

KNOW YOUR THRESHOLD

Folks at or near the next highest tax bracket should pay close attention to anything that might bump them up (like capital gains without corresponding capital losses) and make plans to reduce taxable income before New Year’s Eve or delay selling until 2016.

REBALANCE

Your financial plan may be off-kilter due to concentrated positions or appreciation. Rebalancing can potentially bring your asset allocation back in line with your objectives.

TAKE RMDs

If you’re 70½ or older and have an IRA, take your required minimum distributions to avoid any penalties.

GIVE GENEROUSLY

Give to loved ones (the gift tax exclusion limit is $14,000 for 2015) or to a charitable institution.

Charitable donations keep you connected to your community, and the tax deductions are a nice little gift for you, too. We can help you determine if you have highly appreciated assets that could be incorporated into your charitable-giving strategy.

PAY YOURSELF

December 31 is the last day to establish a qualified retirement plan (in most cases). You’ve got until April 15 to fully fund it, but why give up months of potential growth? Don’t forget catch up provisions, if eligible.

GET ORGANIZED

Delete, shred or digitize old documents and ensure everything is where it should be so that you can review your progress over the past year and prep for tax season.

MAKE A DATE

We can coordinate with your accountant and estate attorney to help you make the most of tax laws and identify opportunities. Also, set aside time with relevant parties at least once a year or when you have a major life change to review your accounts, beneficiaries and estate planning documents to ensure they’re tax-efficient and accurate.

Asset allocation does not guarantee a profit nor protect against loss.

This information, developed by an independent third party, has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. This information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Investments mentioned may not be suitable for all investors. The material is general in nature. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. does not provide advice on tax, legal or mortgage issues. These matters should be discussed with the appropriate professional.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other government agency, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal.

Stephen P. Poitevint is a Registered Principal and Financial Advisor of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, and is located at 908 Tallahassee Highway, Bainbridge, Georgia, and can be contacted at (229) 246-7208 or www.poitevint.com.