What are the most important financial moves to make in your 40s?

Your 40s are peak-earning, peak-responsibility years, so the goal is to convert higher income into durable net worth. Push retirement savings toward 15–20% of gross pay and aim to max your 401(k) ($23,500 in 2025). Knock out any remaining non-mortgage debt, since you have fewer working years to recover from setbacks. Make sure term life and disability insurance match your income and dependents, and confirm your beneficiaries are current. If college is on the horizon, fund a 529 without shortchanging retirement — kids can borrow for school, you cannot borrow for retirement. Finally, get a real estate plan in place: a will, powers of attorney, and a health-care directive. A focused checkup helps you find gaps. See wealthserene.com/assessments/financial-wellness.