For many Americans, Labor Day Weekend marks the end of summer. While most of us look forward to a nice 3-day weekend, it comes with some bittersweetness, particularly for those in the northern part of the country. Fall is a beautiful season. However, it is difficult to refrain from thinking about what follows the fall season. Seasons aside, it also signifies a sense of getting back to business.

We’ve had countless conversations with clients during the summer that ended with intentions of taking care of something after Labor Day. Things seem to slow down in the summer. Once Labor Day comes and goes, the pace starts to pick back up. The kids are back in school, not as many people are on vacation and everyone is more focused. The things that were put off until a later date start to rise on the priority list.

As we transition out of summer mode and start thinking about year-end, there are some items for consideration regarding your investments. It is always good to check and make sure that your required minimum distribution has been satisfied if you are taking them. If you are working and saving, make sure you are on track to put the amount in your 401(k) that you were planning for. You should also look at your portfolio and see if there are any opportunities to take gains or use losses to offset gains. These are just a couple of examples of things to think about.

We still have some summer days to take in and spend some quality time with friends and family. Enjoy them and appreciate what you have. When the weather cools down and we transition into the fall season, don’t forget the things you put off until after Labor Day.

Disclosures