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Post-Tax Season Playbook: What to Do After Filing
William Thompson
May 12, 2025
In partnership with
Tax season might be over, but your financial planning shouldn’t stop at hitting “SUBMIT.” Once you’ve filed, it’s the perfect time to reflect, prepare, and position yourself for a stronger year ahead. Whether you got a refund or had to pay, here’s what to do next.
1. Review Your Return
Take a moment to go through your tax return, not just for errors, but for insights. Ask yourself:
Did you miss any deductions or credits?
Was your withholding too high or too low?
Did your income change significantly?
Understanding your numbers can help you avoid surprises next year and plan more effectively.
2. Adjust Your Withholding or Estimated Payments
If you owed more than expected or received a large refund, it’s time to adjust. Employees can update their W-4; freelancers should reassess their quarterly estimated payments. The goal? Stay as close to break-even as possible, no surprise tax bills or overpaid refunds.
3. Organize Your Documents
Don’t wait until next spring to start fresh. Create folders (physical or digital) for:
Income (W-2s, 1099s, etc.)
Expenses and deductions
Charitable donations
Business receipts
Consistent organization makes next year’s tax prep faster and may reveal new savings opportunities.
4. Plan for Your Refund
If you received a refund, be strategic. Consider:
Paying off high-interest debt
Building your emergency fund
Investing in retirement or education savings
Reinvesting in your business
A smart move today could bring long-term benefits.
5. Plan with a Tax Pro
Post-filing is the best time to meet with a tax advisor. You’ll have a clear picture of what worked and what didn’t. A tax pro can help you:
Identify tax-saving opportunities early
Plan for major life or income changes
Stay ahead of any new tax law updates
Tax season might be behind you, but now’s the time to take control. With the right moves today, you’ll reduce stress, keep more of your income, and build a stronger financial future all year long.
I want to help create a year-round tax plan. Reach out, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
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