Boldin Survey Shows End-of-Year Financial Planning Boosts Confidence Among Wealthy Americans

A recent survey by Boldin, the financial confidence company, found that end-of-year financial planners among financially savvy Americans exhibit high confidence and anticipate having the same or greater wealth at longevity compared to today. The survey polled more than 1,000 Americans who manage their own financial plans using Boldin, with respondents evenly split between retirees (51%) and those planning for retirement (49%), and 70% reporting assets between $1 million and $5 million. Across all wealth bands, the majority expect equal or increased future wealth, suggesting their planning approach is effective and worth emulating.

The survey revealed that regular financial check-ins and end-of-year planning significantly build confidence. Most respondents revisit financial priorities and progress frequently, with 27% checking weekly or more, 21% two to three times monthly, and 25% monthly. Notably, 92% agreed that annual or more frequent reflection on big-picture goals boosts confidence, and 90% said knowing their year-end financial standing enables informed future decisions. These habits are supported by tools like The Boldin Planner, which provides comprehensive financial planning software.

Among those surveyed, 99% engage in end-of-year planning, dedicating time to review past finances and adjust for the upcoming year. Their approaches vary: 34% focus strategically on long-term planning, 54% use a balanced mix of tactical and strategic actions, and 12% concentrate on specific transactions and short-term goals. Common activities include reflecting on financial performance (60%), reviewing spending and income (62%), examining savings goals (44%), planning healthcare coverage (50%), and setting financial goals (43%). Key year-end actions include optimizing tax liability or tax-loss harvesting (40%), completing Roth conversions (39%), and making charitable contributions (24%).

The primary motivation for year-end planning is confidence, with 79% citing it as a key reason, compared to 50% aiming to reduce tax burden and 43% seeking to build wealth over time. Steve Chen, founder and CEO of Boldin, emphasized that planning is driven by a desire for informed decision-making rather than mere performance optimization. He noted that tools enabling self-management, such as those offered by Boldin, enhance know-how and confidence, and that anyone can adopt similar habits by creating plans, setting goals, taking action, and reviewing progress. Boldin's platform, recognized as Bankrate’s Best Financial Planning Software of 2025, includes features like retirement income modeling and Monte Carlo analysis, allowing users to run scenarios and gain clarity.

This survey underscores the importance of disciplined financial planning in fostering confidence and long-term security, particularly among high-net-worth individuals. By integrating regular reviews and strategic year-end activities, planners can navigate financial decisions with greater assurance, potentially leading to sustained or improved wealth outcomes in retirement. The findings suggest that adopting such habits, supported by accessible tools, can benefit a broader audience seeking financial stability.