Another thing that people can do is to sell off some of their losing stocks/funds to help offset any capital gains from sales or distributions, and as a bonus, any losses in excess of gains can be used to offset earned income up to $3,000 per year, thereby further reducing the tax liability.

Along the lines of tips that are not often relayed in posts like this is to take care of all medical visits and procedures in the current year. By grouping all medical expenses within a calendar year, the chances of reaching the 7.5% of AGI floor is more likely. Also, tuition payments covering periods in the first 3 months of 2009, the expenses can be claimed on the 2008 tax return.

I completely agree about getting started with the planning process as early as possible, and try to get my own clients as well as family and friends to thinks about it throughout the year to make it easier. I have listed some tips in my article Get A Jumpstart On Your 2008 Tax Return By Getting Organized Early