The ultimate checklist for year-end financial health (and what insurance can do for you)

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your financial progress and make intentional moves to set yourself up for success in the new year. The little things you do now—whether reviewing your budget or updating insurance policies—can have a significant impact on your financial well-being in 2025 and beyond. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you close out the year strong with AFI by your side.

Step 1: Review your budget

The first step in financial health is knowing exactly where your money has gone over the past year. Pull up your bank and credit card statements to identify patterns and areas where you may have overspent. If you spot trends—like too many takeout meals or impulse buys—consider setting smaller monthly spending limits in the new year to align with your long-term savings goals.

As the holiday season approaches, creating a holiday budget can help you avoid overspending on gifts and events. Plan ahead by listing all expected expenses, including gifts, travel, and entertainment. This will ensure you stay on track and start the new year debt-free.

Step 2: Plan for life’s curveballs

Financial planning isn’t complete without life insurance—because part of financial health is preparing for the unexpected. An AFI life insurance policy offers peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones will be financially protected no matter what life throws your way.

AFI offers a range of customizable options, including term life insurance (great for young families needing affordable protection) and whole life insurance (which builds cash value over time). Whether you want to ensure your family can cover mortgage payments or set aside money for future education expenses, life insurance can help you achieve those goals.

Visit afi.org/afimsoy to explore life insurance policies that fit your family’s unique needs. The right coverage is one of the best gifts you can give this season—security and peace of mind for the future.

Step 3: Update your insurance coverage

Life changes—so should your insurance. Major events like buying a new car, moving, or completing home renovations affect your coverage needs. Reviewing your auto and home insurance policies now ensures you’re neither over-insured nor under-insured as you head into the new year.

For example:

  • Bought a new car? Make sure it’s covered under an updated auto insurance policy with roadside assistance.
  • Moved into a new home? Consider adjusting your home insurance policy to account for your new location’s risks (like weather or flooding).
  • Completed home renovations? Ensure your policy reflects the added value of those improvements.

AFI’s experienced agents can walk you through policy updates and help you determine the best coverage for your lifestyle changes. Visit afi.org/afimsoy to schedule a policy review today.

Step 4: Plan for retirement

Even if retirement feels distant, it’s never too early to start planning. AFI offers retirement planning tools and services that can help you build a secure financial future—whether you’re just starting to save or fine-tuning your portfolio.

Here are some small steps you can take now:

  • Contribute to a retirement account before the year ends to maximize tax benefits.
  • Evaluate your investments and make sure your portfolio aligns with your long-term goals.
  • Increase retirement contributions incrementally—it can make a big difference over time.

Whether retirement is five or 25 years away, starting now gives you more options down the road. Visit afi.org/afimsoy for tools and expert advice that can make planning easy and stress-free.

Step 5: Celebrate your wins

Don’t forget to reflect on the financial progress you’ve made this year, no matter how small. Maybe you paid off some debt, built an emergency fund, or simply got better at tracking expenses. Every step forward matters. Celebrating these victories helps you stay motivated for the financial goals you’ll set in the new year.

Use this time to also evaluate new goals for 2025. Do you want to save more? Travel more? Start investing? With the right plan and support from AFI, those goals are within reach.

End the year strong with AFI

AFI is here to support your financial journey, offering comprehensive insurance solutions and retirement planning tools to fit your needs. We know that financial health is about more than just saving money—it’s about feeling secure and prepared for the future.

Take this opportunity to review your insurance policies, explore new coverage options, and ensure you’re fully protected for the coming year. Head to afi.org/afimsoy to connect with an agent and start 2025 on the right foot.

With a little reflection and the right planning, you can finish the year feeling financially confident and prepared for whatever the future holds. Let AFI help you build a solid foundation for the year ahead—because your peace of mind is worth it.

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