Essential Financial Dates to Organize for 2025

Let’s face it: it can be a shock to realize you missed an important financial deadline, whether it's using FSA dollars, filing taxes, or adjusting your health insurance. Life can throw surprises your way.

To prevent kicking yourself later, mark critical financial dates on your calendar ahead of time. Here are the dates you should make a note of for 2025:

Feb. 15: Review before it's too late

Check your retirement accounts regularly to ensure you’re on track. For employer-sponsored plans like a 401(k) or 403(b), confirm you’re contributing enough to receive the full employer match. The contribution cap for 2025 is $20,500, with an additional catch-up of $6,500 if you’re 50 or older, totaling $27,000 annually. This date isn't mandatory, but it's a smart moment to keep your retirement savings in line.
Verify your health savings account (HSA) contributions from last year's benefit enrollment. You might be surprised at how quickly your HSA can grow!

March 15: Use those FSA dollars or lose them

If you have a flexible spending account (FSA) that allows for a grace period, this is your final “use it or lose it” deadline. If you need to submit medical receipts, consider shifting this date to Feb. 15 for a little extra time. You can also check with your employer about possibly rolling over up to $500 into next year’s FSA.

April 15: Last-minute deductions

If you haven’t yet filed your taxes, submit an extension before midnight today. Remember, an extension gives you more time to file but not to pay any taxes owed.
Make any contributions to your traditional or Roth IRA. You may qualify for a tax deduction on your traditional IRA contribution. Be mindful of your employer retirement plan and income level, as these affect deductibility. Roth IRA contributions will have income limits.
If you run a side business, the first quarter estimated tax payment is due today.
This is also the final day to contribute to your HSA for the previous year. Confirm with your employer regarding the contributions to avoid penalties.

June 15: Midyear financial check-in

If you’re a W-2 employee, verify that your retirement and HSA contributions are correctly deducted from your pay stub.
While you’re out enjoying summer, don’t forget to mail your second-quarter estimated tax payment.

Sept. 15: File your tax return

Gather your tax documents and file your return early to avoid last-minute stress. If you’re working with a preparer, getting your documents to them early is a smart move to avoid the rush.
Don’t forget to make your third-quarter estimated tax payment.

Oct. 15: Final call for deductions

This is the last day to make contributions to your SEP IRA if you filed for an extension. If you didn’t extend, ensure your contribution is made by April 15.
If you’ve extended your tax return, it must be submitted by today. And remember, a little treat for your tax preparer can go a long way!
Medicare open enrollment starts now and runs through December 7.

Nov. 1: Get ready for next year

Your employer's open enrollment period generally begins around this time for benefits selection, including medical, dental, and vision plans. Don’t forget to explore your options.
If you have an HSA, aim to maximize your contributions. The limit for individual coverage is $3,600, while family coverage is $7,200. Employer contributions count toward these limits, so be mindful.
Your state may also start its open enrollment period for marketplace health insurance. Check out www.healthcare.gov for details.

Dec. 1: Wrap up year-end contributions

If you can, make one last significant contribution to your 401(k) by adjusting your contribution percentage. Ask your employer how long these changes take to process.
For charitable or 529 contributions, don’t wait until the last minute. Ensure your contributions are made early to avoid any last-minute complications.

Dec. 31: Last chance of the year

Conversions to Roth IRAs must occur today, as recharacterizations are no longer permitted under the new tax law.
If you’re 70½, ensure you take your required minimum distribution (RMD) to avoid hefty penalties.