December 31 isn't a suggestion. It's a wall. Once the clock runs out on New Year's Eve, a long list of money-saving opportunities disappears forever. No extensions. No do-overs. The IRS doesn't care that you meant to do it — it only cares whether you did it before midnight. Every December, millions of Americans leave free money on the table, pay taxes they didn't have to pay, and miss windows that won't open again for a full year. Don't be one of them. Here are the 7 money moves to make before December 31, 2026 — including the one most people miss entirely. 1. Max Out Your 401(k) — Check Your YTD Contributions Now For 2026, the 401(k) contribution limit is $24,500 . If you're 50 or older, you can add a $8,000 catch-up contribution . And if you're between ages 60 and 63, there's a special $11,250 super catch-up on the table. Log into your 401(k) account today and check how much you've contributed so far this year. Then do the math...