Podcast Summary: The Personal Finance Podcast

Episode: The Ultimate Year End Money Checklist (2025 Edition)
Host: Andrew Giancola
Date: December 1, 2025

Episode Overview

This annual tradition on The Personal Finance Podcast delivers Andrew Giancola’s comprehensive, step-by-step approach to ending the year strong with your money. The “Ultimate Year End Money Checklist (2025 Edition)" is presented as a 10-phase system, loaded with actionable strategies, key metrics to monitor, and wealth-building habits that set listeners up for long-term financial health and momentum into 2026.

The episode’s mission is clear: Help you review, optimize, and automate every money system you have, so you can avoid mistakes, seize easy wins, and roll into the new year ahead of the curve. Andrew’s tone is motivating, practical, and designed to minimize stress while maximizing results.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Why Year-End Money Review Matters ([01:00]–[03:50])

Andrew’s Rationale: Most people let their finances slide during the holidays, missing the crucial opportunity to reset and prepare for a strong next year.
Philosophy: “Wealth builders do things differently. And so what we are doing is preparing ourselves for 2026, making sure we are on track with our finances.” – Andrew ([01:36])

2. Phase 1: Quick Wins & Money Fixes ([03:52]–[10:40])

Action Items:

Cancel Unnecessary Subscriptions: Identify and cut at least three. “Just doing this can save you hundreds of dollars a year. Do it every year.” ([04:20])
Negotiate a Bill: Target internet, phone, cable, or insurance. Even one negotiation = big savings.
Move Money to High-Yield Savings: “Try to increase the amount you’re contributing by even 1% every year for compounding impact.” ([05:02])
Increase 401k Contribution by 1%: Small increases annually add up over decades.
Redeem Credit Card Rewards: Don’t lose out on expiring Amex, Chase, or other perks.
Check for Account Fees: If your bank charges, it’s time to switch.
Sell Three Unused Items: “It gets some cash rolling for the holidays or to start building wealth.” ([06:55])
Review 90 Days of Spending for Leaks: Use tools like Monarch Money or ChatGPT. “Set a timer for ten minutes—see where your money is really going.” ([07:50])
Adjust Contributions for Inflation: If inflation was 3%, bump your savings/investing accordingly.

“All of these are ten-minute wins. Knock them out, get momentum, and check them off your list.” – Andrew ([09:43])

3. Phase 2: Automation Reset ([10:40]–[13:20])

Action Items:

Ensure All Bills Are On Autopay: Even small ones—no late fees, no stress.
Automate Transfers Based on Income Changes: “The 50/50 rule: If you get a raise, split half to lifestyle, half to wealth-building.” ([11:30])
Automate Roth, HSA, 529, and Sinking Funds: Update for new IRS limits and life changes.
Autopay for Credit Cards: Andrew’s rule: Always have autopay in full—if you can’t, reconsider holding the card.
Confirm Account Flow: Use visual flowcharts for clarity.
Set Up Alerts: For deposits, withdrawals, and fraud.

“Automation reduces 80 to 90 percent of money stress. Let your systems work so you don’t have to.” ([12:50])

4. Phase 3: Spending & Saving Review ([13:20]–[16:45])

Action Items:

Calculate Savings Rate: “One of the six key metrics for all wealth builders.”
Identify Lifestyle Creep: Review recent expenses and cut or downgrade at least three.
Refill Emergency Fund: Use the “1-3-6” method for phased saving.
Review Spending Plan Flow: Aim for 50-60% essentials, 20-30% future/wealth, 20-30% fun.
Plan for Big 2026 Expenses: E.g., family trips—start saving now.
Update Sinking Funds & Annual Expenses: Treat irregular bills like insurance as monthly savings.

“If you can't cut baseline expenses, you need to earn more. That’s the real choice for most people.” ([15:50])

5. Phase 4: Net Worth Reset ([16:45]–[18:35])

Action Items:

Track Net Worth Annually: Use Empower, Monarch, or your own spreadsheet.
Analyze Changes: Identify what caused increases or decreases.
Check Progress Toward Financial Independence (FI) Number: Adjust for inflation and lifestyle.
Update Financial Goals: Publicly share and declare your 2026 objectives.

“Your net worth is your wealth-building scorecard. Review and compare to last year—make sure it’s moving in the right direction.” ([17:25])

6. Phase 5: Investments & Retirement Tune-Up ([18:35]–[24:25])

Action Items:

Update Contribution Limits: New 2026 levels for 401(k)s (+$1,000), IRAs ($7,500).
Max Out Employer Match: “Free money—never leave it on the table.”
Rebalance Portfolio if Needed: Align allocations with your risk tolerance.
Review HSAs and Account Types: Ensure you’re leveraging all available tax-advantaged accounts.
50+ Essentials: Maximize catch-up contributions, review Social Security and Medicare options, calculate RMDs (age 73+), consider Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).

“Some years the IRS increases happen, some years not. Adjust your contributions right away so you’re ready to take full advantage.” ([19:55])

7. Phase 6: Tax Optimization ([25:17]–[26:48])

Highlights:

Max Out HSA: "Triple tax advantage—deduct, grow, and use tax-free." ([25:37])
529 Contributions: For state tax savings, but prioritize retirement first.
Roth Conversions & Tax Loss Harvesting: Consult with your CPA for best timing.
For Business Owners: Check quarterly tax payments and adjust W-2 withholdings.
Charitable Donations: Give before year-end for deductions.
Use Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Before Expiry: Unlike HSA, FSA does not roll over.
Meet with CPA Now, Not in Tax Season: “Get ahead before they’re too busy.”

8. Phase 7: Credit & Debt Checkups ([26:48]–[32:50])

Action Items:

Check Credit Score & Report: Use Monarch, FreeCreditReport.com, or your bank.
Review Debt & Interest Rates: Watch for adjustable rates; consider refinancing if rates have dropped.
Refine Debt Payoff Strategy: Prioritize high-interest debt (>6%).
Audit Credit Card Lineup: Downgrade cards, consider 0% balance transfers if needed.
Automate Extra Debt Payments: Remove willpower from the process, make progress inevitable.

“When you have your debt paid off, there is nothing better. You have peace of mind and you don’t owe anybody anything in this life.” ([32:28])

9. Phase 8: Insurance & Protection Review ([32:50]–[37:40])

Action Items:

Review Life Insurance: Term is best for most; shop annually for best rates.
Assess Disability and Umbrella Coverage: Especially if you have dependents or a high net worth.
Shop Home & Auto Insurance: At least annually—this saves many people hundreds per year.
Update Beneficiaries: Especially after life events (e.g., trusts, new family members).
Confirm Next Year's Health Plan: During open enrollment.
Freeze Credit & Set Up Online Protection: Protect yourself from growing identity theft. Services like Delete Me remove your info from data brokers.
Set Up a Protection Plan: Episode recommendations for deep dives provided.

10. Phase 9: Estate Planning & Document Review ([37:40]–[39:15])

Action Items:

Review & Update Will, Power of Attorney, Health Directive: Annually or at least every 3 years.
Create a “Dead Binder”: Centralize all critical information, passwords, and instructions for family.
Update Guardianship Plans & Digital Access to Assets: Ensure nothing is left out.

“It’s not fun to do this stuff, but it is necessary…” ([38:35])

11. Phase 10: Goal Setting for Next Year ([39:15]–[41:40])

Action Items:

Set 2026 Savings & Investing Goals: Emergency funds, retirement, brokerage accounts.
Establish Income & Career Goals: Identify skills to learn, set targets.
Define Financial Vision: Write down your long-term “why.”
Schedule Annual Review & Spousal Planning Session: Andrew recommends a yearly date to plan together with your partner.
Reflect on Past Year’s Wins & Losses.

“Don’t wait until January 15th like everyone else. You could be a month and a half ahead just by starting now.” ([41:13])

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

[01:36] “Wealth builders do things differently.”
[04:20] “Every time I do this, I save myself a ton of money…cancel those unnecessary subscriptions.”
[09:43] “All of these are ten-minute wins. Knock them out, get momentum, and check them off your list.”
[12:50] “Automation reduces 80 to 90 percent of money stress. Let your systems work so you don’t have to.”
[32:28] “When you have your debt paid off, there is nothing better. You have peace of mind and you don’t owe anybody anything in this life.”
[41:13] “Don’t wait until January 15th like everyone else. You could be a month and a half ahead just by starting now.”

Timestamps for Key Segments

| Segment | Timestamp | |-------------------------------|-------------| | Why Year-End Review Matters | 01:00 | | Phase 1: Quick Wins | 03:52 | | Phase 2: Automation Reset | 10:40 | | Phase 3: Spending Review | 13:20 | | Phase 4: Net Worth | 16:45 | | Phase 5: Investments Review | 18:35 | | Phase 6: Tax Optimization | 25:17 | | Phase 7: Credit & Debt | 26:48 | | Phase 8: Insurance | 32:50 | | Phase 9: Estate Planning | 37:40 | | Phase 10: Goal Setting | 39:15 |

Closing Thoughts

Andrew concludes with encouragement to download his detailed PDF checklist and screenshot-ready graphic summarizing all ten phases. He reminds listeners about the Master Money Academy for hands-on guidance and accountability.

“Our goal is to bring you as much value as we possibly can. Thank you for being here.” ([41:38])

Recommended Actions for Listeners

Download the 2025 Year-End Money Checklist from the episode link.
Pick one phase per month if the full list feels overwhelming.
Schedule your financial planning session now—don’t wait for the New Year rush.

This summary is designed for anyone wanting to follow Andrew Giancola’s year-end process, even if you missed the episode. Each phase, packed with practical steps, helps ensure you start the next year with more clarity, control, and confidence over your finances.

Podcast Summary: The Personal Finance Podcast

Episode: The Ultimate Year End Money Checklist (2025 Edition)
Host: Andrew Giancola
Date: December 1, 2025

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Why Year-End Money Review Matters ([01:00]–[03:50])

Andrew’s Rationale: Most people let their finances slide during the holidays, missing the crucial opportunity to reset and prepare for a strong next year.
Philosophy: “Wealth builders do things differently. And so what we are doing is preparing ourselves for 2026, making sure we are on track with our finances.” – Andrew ([01:36])

2. Phase 1: Quick Wins & Money Fixes ([03:52]–[10:40])

Action Items:

Cancel Unnecessary Subscriptions: Identify and cut at least three. “Just doing this can save you hundreds of dollars a year. Do it every year.” ([04:20])
Negotiate a Bill: Target internet, phone, cable, or insurance. Even one negotiation = big savings.
Move Money to High-Yield Savings: “Try to increase the amount you’re contributing by even 1% every year for compounding impact.” ([05:02])
Increase 401k Contribution by 1%: Small increases annually add up over decades.
Redeem Credit Card Rewards: Don’t lose out on expiring Amex, Chase, or other perks.
Check for Account Fees: If your bank charges, it’s time to switch.
Sell Three Unused Items: “It gets some cash rolling for the holidays or to start building wealth.” ([06:55])
Review 90 Days of Spending for Leaks: Use tools like Monarch Money or ChatGPT. “Set a timer for ten minutes—see where your money is really going.” ([07:50])
Adjust Contributions for Inflation: If inflation was 3%, bump your savings/investing accordingly.

“All of these are ten-minute wins. Knock them out, get momentum, and check them off your list.” – Andrew ([09:43])

3. Phase 2: Automation Reset ([10:40]–[13:20])

Action Items:

Ensure All Bills Are On Autopay: Even small ones—no late fees, no stress.
Automate Transfers Based on Income Changes: “The 50/50 rule: If you get a raise, split half to lifestyle, half to wealth-building.” ([11:30])
Automate Roth, HSA, 529, and Sinking Funds: Update for new IRS limits and life changes.
Autopay for Credit Cards: Andrew’s rule: Always have autopay in full—if you can’t, reconsider holding the card.
Confirm Account Flow: Use visual flowcharts for clarity.
Set Up Alerts: For deposits, withdrawals, and fraud.

“Automation reduces 80 to 90 percent of money stress. Let your systems work so you don’t have to.” ([12:50])

4. Phase 3: Spending & Saving Review ([13:20]–[16:45])

Action Items:

Calculate Savings Rate: “One of the six key metrics for all wealth builders.”
Identify Lifestyle Creep: Review recent expenses and cut or downgrade at least three.
Refill Emergency Fund: Use the “1-3-6” method for phased saving.
Review Spending Plan Flow: Aim for 50-60% essentials, 20-30% future/wealth, 20-30% fun.
Plan for Big 2026 Expenses: E.g., family trips—start saving now.
Update Sinking Funds & Annual Expenses: Treat irregular bills like insurance as monthly savings.

“If you can't cut baseline expenses, you need to earn more. That’s the real choice for most people.” ([15:50])

5. Phase 4: Net Worth Reset ([16:45]–[18:35])

Action Items:

Track Net Worth Annually: Use Empower, Monarch, or your own spreadsheet.
Analyze Changes: Identify what caused increases or decreases.
Check Progress Toward Financial Independence (FI) Number: Adjust for inflation and lifestyle.
Update Financial Goals: Publicly share and declare your 2026 objectives.

“Your net worth is your wealth-building scorecard. Review and compare to last year—make sure it’s moving in the right direction.” ([17:25])

6. Phase 5: Investments & Retirement Tune-Up ([18:35]–[24:25])

Action Items:

Update Contribution Limits: New 2026 levels for 401(k)s (+$1,000), IRAs ($7,500).
Max Out Employer Match: “Free money—never leave it on the table.”
Rebalance Portfolio if Needed: Align allocations with your risk tolerance.
Review HSAs and Account Types: Ensure you’re leveraging all available tax-advantaged accounts.
50+ Essentials: Maximize catch-up contributions, review Social Security and Medicare options, calculate RMDs (age 73+), consider Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs).

“Some years the IRS increases happen, some years not. Adjust your contributions right away so you’re ready to take full advantage.” ([19:55])

7. Phase 6: Tax Optimization ([25:17]–[26:48])

Highlights:

Max Out HSA: "Triple tax advantage—deduct, grow, and use tax-free." ([25:37])
529 Contributions: For state tax savings, but prioritize retirement first.
Roth Conversions & Tax Loss Harvesting: Consult with your CPA for best timing.
For Business Owners: Check quarterly tax payments and adjust W-2 withholdings.
Charitable Donations: Give before year-end for deductions.
Use Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Before Expiry: Unlike HSA, FSA does not roll over.
Meet with CPA Now, Not in Tax Season: “Get ahead before they’re too busy.”

8. Phase 7: Credit & Debt Checkups ([26:48]–[32:50])

Action Items:

Check Credit Score & Report: Use Monarch, FreeCreditReport.com, or your bank.
Review Debt & Interest Rates: Watch for adjustable rates; consider refinancing if rates have dropped.
Refine Debt Payoff Strategy: Prioritize high-interest debt (>6%).
Audit Credit Card Lineup: Downgrade cards, consider 0% balance transfers if needed.
Automate Extra Debt Payments: Remove willpower from the process, make progress inevitable.

“When you have your debt paid off, there is nothing better. You have peace of mind and you don’t owe anybody anything in this life.” ([32:28])

9. Phase 8: Insurance & Protection Review ([32:50]–[37:40])

Action Items:

Review Life Insurance: Term is best for most; shop annually for best rates.
Assess Disability and Umbrella Coverage: Especially if you have dependents or a high net worth.
Shop Home & Auto Insurance: At least annually—this saves many people hundreds per year.
Update Beneficiaries: Especially after life events (e.g., trusts, new family members).
Confirm Next Year's Health Plan: During open enrollment.
Freeze Credit & Set Up Online Protection: Protect yourself from growing identity theft. Services like Delete Me remove your info from data brokers.
Set Up a Protection Plan: Episode recommendations for deep dives provided.

10. Phase 9: Estate Planning & Document Review ([37:40]–[39:15])

Action Items:

Review & Update Will, Power of Attorney, Health Directive: Annually or at least every 3 years.
Create a “Dead Binder”: Centralize all critical information, passwords, and instructions for family.
Update Guardianship Plans & Digital Access to Assets: Ensure nothing is left out.

“It’s not fun to do this stuff, but it is necessary…” ([38:35])

11. Phase 10: Goal Setting for Next Year ([39:15]–[41:40])

Action Items:

Set 2026 Savings & Investing Goals: Emergency funds, retirement, brokerage accounts.
Establish Income & Career Goals: Identify skills to learn, set targets.
Define Financial Vision: Write down your long-term “why.”
Schedule Annual Review & Spousal Planning Session: Andrew recommends a yearly date to plan together with your partner.
Reflect on Past Year’s Wins & Losses.

“Don’t wait until January 15th like everyone else. You could be a month and a half ahead just by starting now.” ([41:13])

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

[01:36] “Wealth builders do things differently.”
[04:20] “Every time I do this, I save myself a ton of money…cancel those unnecessary subscriptions.”
[09:43] “All of these are ten-minute wins. Knock them out, get momentum, and check them off your list.”
[12:50] “Automation reduces 80 to 90 percent of money stress. Let your systems work so you don’t have to.”
[32:28] “When you have your debt paid off, there is nothing better. You have peace of mind and you don’t owe anybody anything in this life.”
[41:13] “Don’t wait until January 15th like everyone else. You could be a month and a half ahead just by starting now.”

Timestamps for Key Segments

Closing Thoughts

“Our goal is to bring you as much value as we possibly can. Thank you for being here.” ([41:38])

Recommended Actions for Listeners

Download the 2025 Year-End Money Checklist from the episode link.
Pick one phase per month if the full list feels overwhelming.
Schedule your financial planning session now—don’t wait for the New Year rush.

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The Ultimate Year End Money Checklist (2025 Edition)

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Summary

Podcast Summary: The Personal Finance Podcast

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Why Year-End Money Review Matters ([01:00]–[03:50])

2. Phase 1: Quick Wins & Money Fixes ([03:52]–[10:40])

3. Phase 2: Automation Reset ([10:40]–[13:20])

4. Phase 3: Spending & Saving Review ([13:20]–[16:45])

5. Phase 4: Net Worth Reset ([16:45]–[18:35])

6. Phase 5: Investments & Retirement Tune-Up ([18:35]–[24:25])

7. Phase 6: Tax Optimization ([25:17]–[26:48])

8. Phase 7: Credit & Debt Checkups ([26:48]–[32:50])

9. Phase 8: Insurance & Protection Review ([32:50]–[37:40])

10. Phase 9: Estate Planning & Document Review ([37:40]–[39:15])

11. Phase 10: Goal Setting for Next Year ([39:15]–[41:40])

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Key Segments

Closing Thoughts

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Personal Finance Podcast

Episode Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Why Year-End Money Review Matters ([01:00]–[03:50])

2. Phase 1: Quick Wins & Money Fixes ([03:52]–[10:40])

3. Phase 2: Automation Reset ([10:40]–[13:20])

4. Phase 3: Spending & Saving Review ([13:20]–[16:45])

5. Phase 4: Net Worth Reset ([16:45]–[18:35])

6. Phase 5: Investments & Retirement Tune-Up ([18:35]–[24:25])

7. Phase 6: Tax Optimization ([25:17]–[26:48])

8. Phase 7: Credit & Debt Checkups ([26:48]–[32:50])

9. Phase 8: Insurance & Protection Review ([32:50]–[37:40])

10. Phase 9: Estate Planning & Document Review ([37:40]–[39:15])

11. Phase 10: Goal Setting for Next Year ([39:15]–[41:40])

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Key Segments

Closing Thoughts