Preparing for Year-End: Simple Financial Tips from CCB

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As December approaches, it’s the perfect time to take a fresh look at your finances and make sure you’re set up for success in the new year. At CCB, we’re here to help you feel confident and supported as you review your accounts, plan ahead, and make smart financial decisions.

Here are a few simple, practical steps to help guide your year-end financial review:

  • Review Your Year-to-Date Spending & Savings- Take a few minutes to look back at the past 11 months.
  • Ask yourself:
    • Did your spending match what you expected this year?
    • Are there areas where you can cut back or adjust?
    • How is your emergency fund looking?
    • Are you building savings the way you hoped?

*Your CCB Checking and Savings accounts are great tools for tracking your progress and planning for the future.

  • Update and Organize Your Accounts– Before the year ends, make sure you know where everything stands.
  • Here’s what to do:
    • Look over your checking and savings account statements for anything unexpected.
    • Cancel subscriptions or automatic payments you no longer use.
    • Make sure all your accounts (personal or business) are up to date and organized.
    • If you’re a business owner, reconcile your books now so January is easier.
    • A clean financial picture sets the stage for smart decisions.
  • Prepare for Tax Season– December is a great time to get ahead on tax planning.
  • Simple reminders and tips:
    • Gather receipts for charitable contributions, medical expenses, and business purchases.
    • Make any year-end contributions that may benefit your tax plan.
    • Connect with your tax professional if you expect major changes in income or expenses, or have any additional questions as you plan.

*CCB can help you review your accounts so you have everything you need when tax time arrives.

  • Set New Goals for the New Year– Once you know where you stand, start thinking about where you want to go.
  • You might consider:
    • Setting a new savings goal
      • Planning for a major purchase
      • Reducing debt or improving credit
      • Creating or updating a budget
      • Adjusting your business goals for 2026

*Tools and resources at CCB make managing your goals even easier.

  • Check Your Cash Flow– With holiday spending and winter expenses, it’s important to stay ahead.
  • Tips:    
    • Make sure your checking account has enough cushion for unexpected costs.
    • If you run a business, plan ahead for seasonal slowdowns or higher year-end expenses.
    • Consider building a small “winter buffer” in your savings account.
  • Strengthen Your Security– Year-end is a perfect time for a quick security tune-up. Here are some options you may want to consider before January.
    • Update your passwords
    • Turn on multi-factor authentication
    • Review all accounts for unusual activity
    • For businesses: check who has access to your financial systems

CCB Is Here to Help

A year-end financial review doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right tools, and a bank that truly cares about you and your goals, you can finish the year strong and start the next one with confidence. Whether you’re reviewing your personal accounts or looking ahead for your business, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today or stop by any of our branches to learn more about how CCB can help you reach your financial goals.