2025 Year-End Tax Tips with Kevin Cross

Dec 15, 2025

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We’re deep into December, and the window for smart year-end tax planning is closing quickly. Taxes may not be at the top of your Christmas wish list, but they are an important reminder of God’s provision—and an opportunity to honor Him through wise stewardship.

As Scripture reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). That includes the resources He’s entrusted to us. Thoughtful planning isn’t about avoiding responsibility—it’s about managing God’s gifts with intention and gratitude.

Today, we sat down with Kevin Cross, a seasoned CPA who has helped countless families navigate taxes with clarity and confidence. As we approach December 31 and look ahead to 2026, here are some of the most important moves to consider.

Rethinking Charitable Giving at Year-End

Charitable giving is always close to the hearts of our listeners, and year-end is an especially strategic time to consider it.

Recent changes to the tax code—including a higher standard deduction and an expanded SALT (state and local tax) deduction—mean many households may now benefit from itemizing again. If that’s you, making charitable contributions before December 31 could provide meaningful tax benefits.

But even if your standard deduction is still too high to itemize, there’s another strategy worth considering: bundling your giving. Instead of spreading donations evenly each year, you might combine two years’ worth of giving into one year. That can push you over the itemization threshold and maximize the tax benefit—while still supporting the ministries and causes you care about.

Why a Donor-Advised Fund Is a Powerful Tool

If you don’t yet know precisely where you want to give, a donor-advised fund (DAF) can be an incredibly flexible option. We often call it a charitable checking account. You receive the tax deduction when you contribute to the fund, then take your time prayerfully distributing gifts to qualified charities.

Kevin likes to say it’s “the most fun fund you’ll ever have”—because it encourages generosity while allowing your resources to be invested and potentially grow before they’re given.

For those who want to ensure their giving supports gospel-centered ministries, I recommend opening a donor-advised fund through the National Christian Foundation (NCF). It’s a wonderful way to align generosity with faith-based impact. You can learn more at FaithFi.com/NCF.

A New Opportunity for Children and Grandchildren (Starting in 2026)

One of the most talked-about developments Kevin highlighted is a new child tax savings account (Trump Account), set to begin in 2026. While no action can be taken until then, it’s worth knowing what to expect.

Under this provision, eligible children may receive a government-funded seed contribution, and families can contribute up to $5,000 per year. Even more interesting: businesses may be able to contribute up to $2,500 tax-free under the right circumstances—while still receiving a deduction.

What makes this especially notable for generous families is that donor-advised funds may be used to contribute to these accounts, creating new ways to bless the next generation while maintaining a strong commitment to charitable giving. Proper planning and paperwork will be essential, but this is an opportunity many families will want to explore.

Qualified Charitable Distributions: A Missed Opportunity for Many

One of the most underutilized tax strategies Kevin sees involves Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)—and it always surprises me how many people don’t know about them.

If you’re 70½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA to a qualified charity and exclude that distribution from taxable income. Once you reach the age for required minimum distributions (RMDs), this becomes even more powerful. Instead of taking the distribution, paying taxes, and then giving what’s left, you can give directly—often satisfying your RMD without increasing your tax bill.

And this isn’t limited to small amounts. You can give up to $100,000 per year through QCDs. It’s one of the most effective charitable strategies available, especially for retirees who want to give generously while managing their tax burden wisely.

Stewardship with Purpose

Taxes can feel complex, frustrating, or even discouraging—but they don’t have to be. When we view them through the lens of stewardship, they become another opportunity to align our financial decisions with God’s purposes.

Kevin Cross brings both expertise and encouragement to this conversation, reminding us that wise planning isn’t about fear—it’s about faithfulness. If you’d like to learn more about Kevin and his work, you can visit KevinCrossCPA.com.

As we close out the year, our prayer is that your financial decisions reflect gratitude for what God has provided—and confidence that He will continue to lead you as you steward it well.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

I have about $135,000 in my 401(k), and my home is worth around $100,000. Would it be advisable to cash out my 401(k) to pay off my house?
I was recently told about a fixed-rate annuity offering a 22% bonus immediately. Does that sound like a good opportunity, or is it too good to be true?
My mother-in-law, who’s still living, deeded my husband five and a half acres out of a 13-acre property. We’re considering selling that portion to his sister and want to understand the tax implications—what tax rate applies, whether there’s an inheritance tax, and how that works.

Resources Mentioned:

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

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