Key Tax Deadlines in December 2025

This month’s tax obligations bring integral tasks such as year-end strategies, detailed tip documentation, IRA distributions, and settling deductible expenses for 2025. Here’s a comprehensive guide to key due dates in December to ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines this tax season.

December 1 - Initiate Year-End Tax Planning

Take proactive measures this month to shape your 2025 tax outcomes. Changes such as a significant shift in income, alterations in marital or dependent status, or property sales necessitate a detailed tax planning consultation. Ensure your affairs are aligned for an optimal tax result.

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December 10 - Tip Earnings Must Be Reported to Employers

Employees who earn tips surpassing $20 during November are mandated to declare these to their employer by December 10 using IRS Form 4070. It’s crucial for the correct withholding of FICA taxes and income tax from regular earnings. In circumstances where regular wages cannot cover these withholdings, the remainder will be accounted for in box 8 of the W-2 form and require fulfillment upon tax filing.

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December 31 - Deadline for Mandatory IRA Withdrawals

Those born before January 1, 1952, must complete withdrawals from Traditional IRA accounts by this date to avoid penalties. If your 73rd birthday falls within the calendar year 2025, the first required distribution pertains to this tax year but can be postponed until April 1, 2026. To avoid complications, especially if financial institutions are closed on December 31, it is advisable to execute withdrawals earlier.

December 31 - Final Date to Settle 2025 Deductible Expenses

Ensure all deductible expenses are paid by this date, except for contributions to IRA, SEP, or Keogh plans, which allow for contributions beyond December 31, 2025.

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December 31 - Be Prepared for New Year's Eve Closures

Since financial institutions might be closed or unavailable for last-minute transactions on December 31, act in advance to avoid bottlenecks in meeting obligations.

Weekends & Holidays Considerations
In cases where due dates fall on weekends or legal holidays, deadlines automatically extend to the next business day.

Disaster Area Extensions

Geographical areas recognized as disaster zones may benefit from extended due dates. Verify current designations and filing extensions through the following essential resources:
FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/declarations
IRS: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations

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