“A lot of this is recurring every year, but it's easy to forget,” says Américo Fernández, private economist at major bank SEB.
The first thing he thinks you should do before the new year is to take control of how much tax you pay. For those who usually get a larger amount in tax refunds, it's time to apply for an adjustment. This is especially relevant for households with small margins and can be done at any time. But it's best to have it ready for the first paycheck of the year.
Then you start paying the correct taxes right away in the new year and that can free up some money, says Américo Fernández.
Use deductions
The next point to check off before the new year is to possibly utilize square and square deductions, where the square deduction has been expanded and will end at the turn of the year.
When it comes to the tax deduction, you should take advantage of this last high subsidy because it will be reduced from January 1, 2026.
To be granted 50 percent for root deductions, payment must have been made no later than December 31, 2025. The application must have been received by the Swedish Tax Agency no later than January 31, 2026, and the work must have been completed when the application is submitted.
Avoid credit
As for the last tip, it may already be too late for some. The advice is about not overspending during the Christmas and New Year holidays and entering January with a negative balance. But it is also useful for the rest of the year.
Try to buy on credit as little as possible, "Buy now, pay later." As soon as you start paying interest on it, it can be tough.
And for those who have already bought presents or other things for Christmas, Américo Fernández has a tip about an emergency exit.
It should not be forgotten that many times when you buy a product, you actually have a right of withdrawal as a consumer. If you change your mind, you can return the product.
