Prior to year‐end is an optimal time to review records and business/investment activities not only to ascertain tax liabilities for the year but, more importantly, to determine whether there are any strategies that can be put into effect prior to year‐end to reduce the annual tax bill. The 2017 Tax Act has put into effect for 2018 sweeping tax changes presenting opportunities to may especially those with business passthrough income, but also contains pitfalls for the unwary. Contained within is a summary along with some planning ideas for year end in the categories of (1) individual (including estate & gift tax matters) business, (2) business and (3) international tax considerations.