Sell investments at a loss to offset capital gains. Losses exceeding gains can offset up to $3,000 of ordinary income. Watch the wash sale rule — can't buy substantially identical securities within 30 days.

Alternate between standard and itemized deductions by bunching multiple years of charitable giving into one year. Use a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF).

If you expect lower income next year, defer income. If higher income next year, accelerate income this year. Self-employed have the most flexibility.

1) Contributions deductible. 2) Growth tax-free. 3) Withdrawals for medical expenses tax-free. After 65, use for any purpose.

If you're 70½+, donate up to $108,000 directly from your IRA to charity. Counts toward RMD but isn't included in taxable income.

Contributions grow tax-free for education. Unused funds can now be rolled to a Roth IRA (up to $35,000 lifetime, after 15 years).

Invest capital gains in designated low-income areas. Defer original gain until 2026 and exclude future appreciation if held 10+ years.

Exclude up to $250,000 ($500,000 MFJ) of gain on primary home sale. Must have owned and lived in it for 2 of the last 5 years.