The final stretch before retirement can make or break your financial future.

If you’re within 10 years of retirement, this isn’t the time to coast—it’s time to sharpen your strategy. What you do [or don’t do] in the decade leading up to retirement will determine whether you retire with confidence or uncertainty.

Here’s a smart checklist of the key moves to make—and the missteps to avoid.

DO: Maximize Tax-Efficient Growth

If your income is high right now, consider Roth conversions in low-income years or strategic windows where your tax bracket dips. The goal? Create a more tax-diversified portfolio that gives you flexibility in retirement.

Also, maximize contributions to retirement accounts—401[k], IRA, and HSAs—especially catch-up contributions after age 50.

DON’T: Assume Your Tax Rate Will Be Lower in Retirement

Many pre-retirees believe they’ll pay less in taxes once they stop working. But RMDs, Social Security, and taxable investments can push you right back up.

Get ahead by mapping out your retirement tax brackets now—and planning your withdrawal strategy accordingly.

DO: Revisit Your Risk Tolerance

The closer you are to retirement, the less time you have to recover from market downturns. That doesn’t mean pulling out of the market—but it does mean reassessing your asset allocation and making sure your income plan can weather volatility.

DON’T: Forget About Healthcare Planning

Medicare doesn’t kick in until 65—and even then, it doesn’t cover everything. Planning for out-of-pocket medical expenses, long-term care, and supplemental insurance can protect your retirement income.

DO: Run a Retirement Income Projection

Don’t guess what you’ll need—calculate it. Factor in inflation, lifestyle, travel, gifting, healthcare, and legacy goals. Then test your income plan against different scenarios.

Ready to make the most of your final working years? Let’s build a plan that makes retirement feel like a reward—not a risk.