We all know what’s coming. The post-Thanksgiving rush, when assets move, deadlines tighten, and every client wants to finish strong. The advisors who glide through December aren’t the ones reacting to last-minute requests; they’re the ones using this window before Thanksgiving to get ahead. 

There’s still time to plan intentionally. Here’s how to make the most of the weeks ahead and set your clients and yourself up for a calm, successful close to the year. 

1. Move appreciated stock before the crowd does 

Clients with appreciated stock or concentrated positions can still contribute to their donor-advised fund (DAF) and secure a 2025 deduction. Acting now also helps manage capital gains and ensures enough time for transfers to clear before year-end. 

A quick review now means you can avoid the backlog later, and your clients can decide where to give when they’re ready. 

2. Know the deadlines that matter most  

Each type of contribution has its own timing, from securities to wire transfers to grant recommendations. They all move faster than you think once the holidays hit. 

Ren and Renaissance Charitable (RCF) are designed for efficiency and flexibility, but timing still matters. Reviewing your clients’ plans before Thanksgiving is the simplest way to prevent year-end surprises. 

3. Bring philanthropy into your year-end meetings 

If you’re meeting with clients for annual reviews, weave charitable planning into the agenda. We talked about this in our October QuickHit: a simple question, “What causes mattered most to you this year?”, can uncover giving opportunities, spark family discussions, and align wealth with values. 

Philanthropy is often the bridge between financial goals and personal purpose. Starting that conversation early positions you as the advisor who helps connect both. 

4. Start complex gifts now, not later  

Private stock, LP interests, real estate, or other illiquid assets can be powerful gifts, but they take time. Early coordination ensures proper valuation, documentation, and processing, all before the holiday deadlines. 

At Ren, we specialize in helping advisors navigate these complex contributions with clarity and speed. Starting the process now keeps everything, and everyone, on track. 

Finish strong by starting early 

Thanksgiving is the unofficial countdown to year-end. The advisors who plan before the holiday rush are the ones who finish with less stress and stronger client relationships.