Reminders

It’s our mission to help you win every day. Our daily reminders feature helps you remember the things you need to do on the days you need to do it.

Finance

24 Feb
Banking

Set three tax scam rules

Time to complete: 10 min

Difficulty: Easy

IRS/state won't demand gift cards, click links, or threaten arrests.

What you will need

  • Notes app
  • Bookmark for IRS.gov

Steps to follow

  1. Write Rule 1: Never click tax links in texts/emails.
  2. Write Rule 2: IRS/state never demands gift cards.
  3. Write Rule 3: Always verify by logging in directly.
  4. Bookmark IRS.gov and your state tax site.
  5. Share rules with parents/grandparents.

Benefits

Avoid theft

Stop scams before money leaves.

Protect family

Warn vulnerable relatives.

Less stress

Clear rules prevent panic decisions.

23 Feb
Taxes

Start a medical receipts folder for future HSA payback

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Screenshot receipts immediately and name them clearly for future HSA withdrawals.

What you will need

  • Phone camera or scanner
  • Cloud folder
  • Receipt-naming system

Steps to follow

  1. Create a Medical Receipts folder in a cloud account.
  2. Screenshot receipts immediately after visits.
  3. Name files: date_provider_amount (e.g., 2026-02-23_DrSmith_150).
  4. Keep copies of EOBs (explanation of benefits).

Benefits

Tax-free cash later

Withdraw from HSA anytime with proof.

No missed deductions

Organized receipts speed tax prep.

Less stress

No scrambling years later.

22 Feb
Insurance

Make a home inventory video for insurance

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Walk-and-talk video of each room for insurance claims.

What you will need

  • Phone camera
  • Cloud storage

Steps to follow

  1. Start recording and walk room by room.
  2. Open drawers, closets, and cabinets quickly.
  3. Narrate big-ticket items and brands.
  4. Save video to cloud storage immediately.
  5. Share cloud link with partner or family.

Benefits

Faster claims

Proof speeds up insurance payouts.

Better coverage

You won't forget items under stress.

Peace of mind

One video protects years of purchases.

21 Feb
Debt Relief

Make a one-page debt interest hit list

Time to complete: 25 min

Difficulty: Easy

List every balance, APR, and minimum—then circle the target.

What you will need

  • Notes app or spreadsheet
  • Recent statements
  • Calculator

Steps to follow

  1. List each debt: balance, APR, minimum payment.
  2. Sort by APR from highest to lowest.
  3. Circle the highest APR as your avalanche target.
  4. Keep paying minimums on all others.
  5. Write one idea for an extra $20–$50 payment.

Benefits

Clear strategy

Know where to aim extra payments.

Faster payoff:

High-APR debt shrinks first.

Less interest

Save hundreds or thousands long-term.

20 Feb
Budgeting

Move one bill due date to after payday

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Align due dates with cash flow to reduce late fees and stress.

What you will need

  • List of bills and due dates
  • Payday schedule
  • Lender/utility portal

Steps to follow

  1. List all bills and current due dates;.
  2. Identify one bill that hits before payday.
  3. Log into lender/utility portal or call.
  4. Request new due date after payday.
  5. Screenshot confirmation and update calendar.

Benefits

Fewer late fees

Bills align with income.

Less stress

Cash is ready when bills hit.

Better budgeting

Predictable timing aids planning.

19 Feb
Banking

Turn off overdraft courtesy and set low-balance alerts

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Opt out where possible and set low-balance alerts instead.

What you will need

  • Bank app or website
  • Phone
  • Savings account (optional)

Steps to follow

  1. Log into your bank and find overdraft settings.
  2. Opt out of overdraft "courtesy" where possible.
  3. Set low-balance alert at $50 or $100.
  4. Link savings as backup transfer (if available).
  5. Test alert with a small transfer.

Benefits

Save on fees

Avoid $35+ overdraft charges.

Better awareness

Alerts help you act fast.

More control

Declined beats surprise debt.

18 Feb
Taxes

Estimate your refund/bill and give it a job

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Assign refunds to goals or start saving for a bill—before April.

What you will need

  • Tax software or calculator
  • Budget notes
  • Bank transfer setup

Steps to follow

  1. Use tax software to estimate refund or bill.
  2. Assign refund percentages to goals (debt/savings/fun).
  3. Or set weekly transfers to cover a bill.
  4. Schedule the first transfer now.
  5. Put April 15 reminder on calendar.

Benefits

Better goals

Refunds become intentional tools.

No stress

Bills are covered before they're due.

Faster momentum

Start progress today, not in April.

17 Feb
Credit Cards

Freeze your credit

Time to complete: 45 min

Difficulty: Medium

Lock access unless you're applying for credit soon.

What you will need

  • Password manager
  • Email for confirmations

Steps to follow

  1. Freeze at Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services.
  2. Freeze at Experian.com/freeze/center.html.
  3. Freeze at TransUnion.com/credit-freeze.
  4. Save PINs in your password manager.
  5. Unfreeze temporarily when needed.

Benefits

Stop identity theft

Prevents fraudulent accounts

No cost

Freezes are free by law

Full control

You decide when to unlock

16 Feb
Spending

Build a Presidents Day sale list

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Only buy what you're replacing—not "deals" you don't need.

What you will need

  • Notes app
  • Old item photos
  • Screenshot tool

Steps to follow

  1. Write a replace-only list of items you need.
  2. Price-check and screenshot current prices.
  3. Set 24-hour wait rule for anything else.
  4. Shop the list only (no browsing).
  5. Save receipts and return windows.

Benefits

Avoid impulse debt

Stick to real needs.

Better prices

Screenshots verify "deals".

Less clutter

Replace, don't accumulate.

Lifestyle

24 Feb
Landscaping

Inspect deck boards for loose nails

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Walk your deck and secure any loose or lifted fasteners.

What you will need

  • Hammer or rubber mallet
  • Safety glasses
  • Notepad or phone for notes
  • Marker or chalk for problem boards

Steps to follow

  1. Walk the entire deck slowly, scanning for raised nails, screws, or uneven boards.
  2. Hammer down any popped nails until they sit flush or slightly below the wood surface.
  3. Test each board by stepping firmly in the center to feel for movement or softness.
  4. Mark any boards that feel spongy or show rot so you can replace them.

Benefits

Trip hazard removal

Secures boards, prevents injuries/falls.

Durability extension

Tight fixes stop water entry, lasts 5+ years.

Value preservation

Strong deck boosts outdoor appeal.

23 Feb
Interior Decorating

Clean and organize laundry room thoroughly

Time to complete: 45 min

Difficulty: Easy

Clear lint, spills, and clutter where you wash everything else.

What you will need

  • All‑purpose cleaner and cloth
  • Small brush or old toothbrush
  • Trash bag
  • Storage bins or baskets

Steps to follow

  1. Wipe the tops and fronts of washer and dryer.
  2. Clean around and under the lint trap opening.
  3. Check between and behind machines for debris.
  4. Sort shelves and toss empty or unused products.
  5. Group detergents, stain removers, and cleaners into labeled bins.

Benefits

Efficiency gains

Sorted space cuts laundry time 20%.

Safety first

Clears lint hazards, prevents fires.

Longer machine life

Reduces breakdowns, saves $200 repairs.

22 Feb
Home Repair

Check outdoor faucets for freeze damage

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Open hose bibs and look for leaks or cracks before spring.

What you will need

  • Hose or bucket
  • Flashlight
  • Towel for drips

Steps to follow

  1. Turn on each outdoor faucet slowly.
  2. Look for spraying, dripping, or weak flow.
  3. Check inside the house near where the faucet pipes run.
  4. Note any cracking or leaking fixtures.
  5. Schedule repair or replacement before heavy use.

Benefits

Avoid burst pipes

Fixes prevent $1,500+ flood repairs.

Spring-ready plumbing

Ensures reliable outdoor water access.

Lower utility bills

No leaks save 5-10% on water costs.

21 Feb
Interior Decorating

Clean window tracks with vinegar solution

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Clear mold, grime, and grit so your windows slide like new.

What you will need

  • White vinegar
  • Water
  • Spray bottle
  • Old toothbrush or small brush
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Vacuum (optional)

Steps to follow

  1. Remove the screens carefully and set them aside in a safe spot.
  2. Mix a 1:1 vinegar and water solution in a spray bottle and soak the window tracks.
  3. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub corners and grooves with a toothbrush.
  4. Wipe loosened dirt and grime with a cloth; vacuum any leftover debris if needed.
  5. Dry the tracks completely, then reinstall screens and test that the window glides smoothly.
20 Feb
Home Renovation

Check attic insulation for winter damage

Time to complete: 25 min

Difficulty: Medium

Check for wet, flattened, or pest-damaged insulation in your attic.

What you will need

  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Dust mask and gloves
  • Sturdy shoes or boards to walk on
  • Notepad or phone for photos

Steps to follow

  1. Enter the attic safely and only step on joists or secure boards, not bare drywall.
  2. Scan the insulation for dark stains, wet spots, or areas that look matted or sunken.
  3. Look for signs of pests like tunnels, droppings, or shredded material along the edges.
  4. Note any spots where you can clearly see joists—that usually means insulation is too thin.
  5. Plan to fix roof or vent leaks first, then add or replace insulation where needed.

Benefits

Energy bill cuts

Intact insulation saves 10-20% on heating.

Temperature control

Even warmth stops drafts, comfort year-round.

Pest prevention

Seals gaps, reduces rodent entry risks.

19 Feb
Home Repair

Check for carbon monoxide leaks

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Test every detector and check venting before CO builds up.

What you will need

  • CO detectors on every floor
  • Step stool (if needed)
  • Gas appliance access (furnace, water heater, stove)
  • Flashlight

Steps to follow

  1. Press the test button on every CO detector until the full alarm sounds.
  2. If a unit chirps weakly or not at all, replace the batteries or the detector if its over 10 years old.
  3. Go outside and check furnace and gas appliance vents for blockages, snow, or nests.
  4. Look around gas appliances for soot stains, corrosion, or yellow, lazy flames and call a pro if you see them.
  5. Note any missing detectors and plan to add them outside bedrooms and on each level.

Benefits

Life-saving detection

Early alerts prevent poisoning, protects family.

Avoid fines/disasters

Compliance stops $500+ emergency calls.

Peace of mind

Safe home lets you focus on living worry-free.

18 Feb
Landscaping

Inspect fence posts for winter damage

Time to complete: 25 min

Difficulty: Easy

Walk your fence line slowly and test each post for hidden weakness.

What you will need

  • Work gloves
  • Notepad or phone for notes
  • Marker or flagging tape for problem spots

Steps to follow

  1. Walk the entire fence line slowly, watching for leaning or sagging sections.
  2. At each post, give it a firm shake to see if it moves more than an inch or feels soft at the base.
  3. Check for rot, insect damage, or loose and rusted hardware where rails meet posts.
  4. Mark any weak or leaning posts so you can repair or call a pro once you finish.
  5. Prioritize fixing worst spots first so wind or pets don't knock the fence down.

Benefits

Structural safety

Fixes rot early, prevents collapse injuries/liability.

Curb appeal boost

Sturdy fence raises property value $1,000+.

Cost savings

Avoids full replacement at $50-100 per post.

16 Feb
Home Renovation

Inspect attic for ice dam damage and ventilation

Time to complete: 30 min

Difficulty: Medium

Check for stains, damp insulation, and blocked vents.

What you will need

  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Dust mask
  • Knee pads or scrap cardboard
  • Camera or phone for photos

Steps to follow

  1. Enter the attic safely and watch your step.
  2. Look for dark stains on wood near the eaves.
  3. Check insulation for damp, flat, or moldy spots.
  4. Verify soffit and roof vents aren’t blocked.
  5. Photograph problem areas to discuss with a roofer or insulation pro.

Benefits

Avoid water damage

Spots ice dams early, prevents $2,000+ interior repairs.

Improve energy efficiency

Better vent cuts heating bills 15%.

Prevent mold growth

Dry attic stops health risks from trapped moisture.

15 Feb
Interior Decorating

Wash your mattress protector today

Time to complete: 45 min

Difficulty: Easy

Give your bed a true reset by washing the mattress protector that quietly catches sweat, dust, and spills all year long.

What you will need

  • Washing machine and mild detergent
  • Stain remover (if needed)
  • Laundry mesh bag for straps or zippers
  • Dryer or clothesline
  • Mattress vacuum or lint roller

Steps to follow

  1. Strip the bed and remove the mattress protector.
  2. Check the care label for wash and dry settings.
  3. Pre-treat any stains with a gentle stain remover.
  4. Wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
  5. Dry on low heat or air dry to protect waterproof layers.
  6. Vacuum or lint-roll the bare mattress before remaking the bed.
  7. Put the clean, dry protector back on and add fresh sheets.

Benefits

Protect mattress investment

Blocks spills/dust, saves $500-1,000 on new mattress.

Allergy relief

Fresh protector cuts irritants by 90%, better rest.

Hygiene boost

Weekly wash kills bacteria, promotes healthier sleep.

Pets

12 Jan
Pet Health

Set up a pet emergency fund

Time to complete: 30 min

Difficulty: Easy

Create a small savings buffer specifically for unexpected pet expenses.

What you will need

  • Savings account or labeled sub-account
  • Monthly budget
  • Automatic transfer setup

Steps to follow

  1. Decide on an initial goal, such as $300–$500.
  2. Open a separate savings account labeled “Pet Emergency Fund.”
  3. Set up an automatic monthly transfer, even $10–$25 helps.
  4. Add to the fund when possible (tax refunds, bonuses).
  5. Use it only for true pet emergencies.

Benefits

Avoid debt

Covers vet bills without credit cards.

Reduce stress

Emergencies feel more manageable.

Protect your budget

Keeps unexpected costs from derailing plans.