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.
Automotive
29
Sep
Check your car’s heater and defroster
Test your heater and defroster before cold weather to ensure clear windows and cabin heat.
What you will need
- Owner’s manual (HVAC/defrost settings)
- Flashlight (for quick cabin filter check)
Steps to follow
- Start the car and switch to Heat/Defrost with the fan on medium-high.
- Confirm warm air at all vents within a few minutes and watch the windshield clear.
- Cycle through modes and speeds to ensure the blower and blend doors respond.
- Check/replace the cabin air filter if airflow is weak or musty.
- Book service if heat is lukewarm, airflow is poor, or the defroster is slow.
Benefits
Prevent costly repairs
Early fixes can avoid heater core/blower issues ($300–$1,000).
Reduce towing/roadside costs
Fewer cold-weather breakdowns ($100–$300).
Protect visibility
A strong defroster helps avoid damage and insurance deductibles.
27
Sep
Inspect your child’s car seat for any defects
Inspect and register your child’s car seat to catch defects and receive free recall repairs.
What you will need
- Car seat manual (paper or online)
- Good lighting/flashlight
- Seat label info (model, DOM, serial)
- Smartphone/computer (manufacturer registration page)
Steps to follow
- Check the shell and base for cracks, stress lines, or loose hardware.
- Inspect straps and buckles for fraying, cuts, stiffness, or sticking latches.
- Verify all parts are present (chest clip, padding, anchors) and the seat isn’t past expiration.
- Record model/serial details from the label and register on the manufacturer’s website.
Benefits
Free recall fixes
Registration gets you no-cost repairs or parts, avoiding $20–$100 out-of-pocket.
Avoid full replacement
Early issue detection can prevent buying a new seat ($100–$300).
Reduce ticket risks
A compliant, intact seat helps avoid fines or re-inspection costs ($25–$200, locality-dependent).
29
Aug
Check your car’s oil and coolant levels
Check oil and coolant levels in your car to prevent overheating and engine damage.
What you will need
- Paper towels or rags
- Funnel (if topping up)
- Engine oil (correct grade)
- Coolant (pre-mixed or diluted as recommended)
Steps to follow
- Park on level ground and turn off engine. Wait 10-15 minutes for oil to settle back into the oil pan.
- Locate the oil dipstick (usually has a yellow or orange handle) and pull it out completely.
- Clean dipstick with cloth, reinsert fully, then pull out again to check oil level against minimum and maximum marks.
- Find the coolant reservoir tank (translucent plastic container near radiator) and check fluid level against minimum/maximum marks.
- Check coolant color - it should be clear green, orange, or pink depending on type. Brown or rusty coolant needs replacement.
- Add appropriate fluids if levels are below minimum marks, but do not overfill.
Benefits
No roadside assistance costs
Avoids roadside breakdown costs ($100–$300 towing fees)
Keeps engine running longer
Extends engine life through proper lubrication and cooling
No pricey engine repairs
Prevents engine repairs that can cost $2,000–$5,000
21
Aug
Inspect car’s radiator and hoses for any cracks or leaks
Check radiator and cooling system hoses for cracks, leaks, or bulges that could cause overheating and engine damage.
What you will need
- Flashlight
- Gloves
- Paper towels (to check for leaks)
Steps to follow
- Allow the engine to cool completely before inspection - hot coolant can cause severe burns.
- Open hood and locate upper radiator hose (connects radiator top to engine) and lower hose (connects radiator bottom to water pump).
- Examine hose surfaces for cracks, bulges, or soft spots by gently squeezing along entire length.
- Check hose clamps at both ends for tightness and corrosion - loose clamps cause leaks.
- Look for coolant stains, crusty deposits, or wet spots around radiator, hoses, and engine connections.
- Inspect radiator fins for damage, blockage, or bent sections that reduce cooling efficiency.
Benefits
Don't pay for engine repairs
Prevents engine overheating repairs that can cost $2,000–$4,000
Prevent breakdowns
Avoids roadside breakdowns and towing fees ($100–$300)
Avoid replacement expenses
Extends radiator and hose lifespan, reducing replacement costs ($150–$450)
12
Aug
Check your car tire pressure and tread depth
Check tire pressure and tread depth to improve safety and fuel efficiency.
What you will need
- Tire pressure gauge
- Air pump or gas station air hose
- Tread depth gauge or penny
Steps to follow
- Check tire pressure when tires are cold, preferably before driving or after sitting for several hours.
- Remove valve cap and press tire gauge firmly onto valve stem to get accurate pressure reading.
- Compare reading to recommended pressure found on driver's door jamb sticker or owner's manual.
- Add air if pressure is low, or release air if over-inflated to match manufacturer specifications.
- Insert penny into tire tread with Lincoln's head down - if you can see his entire head, tires need replacement.
- Check all four tires plus spare tire for consistent pressure and tread wear patterns.
Benefits
More miles for your buck
Improves fuel economy by 3%, saving more than $100 annually in gas costs
Avoid replacement costs
Extends tire life preventing premature $400–$1,000 tire replacement costs
Improved safety
Prevents accidents from blowouts or loss of traction that could result in thousands in damages
Finance
15
Oct
Get a money buddy
Pick a trusted friend or family member to check in on your spending, saving, and goals.
What you will need
- Calendar for scheduled check-ins
- Shared spreadsheet or Google Sheet
- Budgeting app
- Simple “ground rules” note (topics, tone, privacy)
- List of your goals, debts, and target dates
Steps to follow
- Choose a reliable person who is supportive and will be honest.
- Agree on scope: monthly budget, debt payoff, savings targets, and limits for impulse buys.
- Schedule recurring check-ins (15–20 minutes weekly or biweekly).
- Set up a shared sheet with income, bills, categories, and goal trackers.
- Define quick rules: no shaming, share receipts for big buys, decide how to handle slip-ups.
- Review results, set one action for the next check-in, and celebrate wins.
Benefits
Reduce impulse spending
Accountability can trim $25–$100+ per month in unplanned purchases.
Increase savings rate
Nudges often boost savings by 1–3% of take-home pay.
Avoid late fees
Regular check-ins help catch missed bills, preventing $25–$40 per incident.
14
Oct
Fund your flexible spending account (FSA)
Contribute pre-tax money to your FSA to cover health-related expenses.
What you will need
- Employer benefits portal
- List of expected expenses (co-pays, prescriptions, childcare)
- Payroll access
Steps to follow
- Log in to your employer’s benefits portal.
- Review eligible expenses and annual contribution limits.
- Estimate your medical or dependent care costs for the year.
- Set your annual FSA contribution amount.
- Confirm payroll deductions.
- Track spending to avoid forfeiting unused funds
Benefits
Tax savings
A $2,000 FSA contribution can save $400–$600 in taxes.
Budget smoothing
Saved funds help cover routine medical costs.
Lower net cost
Pre-tax dollars make expenses effectively cheaper.
13
Oct
Set up your online banking profile or update outdated details
Activate online banking and keep your personal details current.
What you will need
- Bank account number
- Personal ID
- Bank website or app
Steps to follow
- Visit your bank’s website or download their app.
- Register with your account number and ID details.
- Create a secure username and strong password.
- Enable two-factor authentication.
- Update your phone, email, and address.
- Set alerts for balances and transactions.
Benefits
Improve security
Real-time alerts help catch fraud fast.
Save time
Pay bills and transfer funds without branch visits.
Avoid missed notices
Updated contact info prevents disruptions.
12
Oct
Build up savings for an emergency fund
Set aside cash to cover at least three to six months of essential expenses.
What you will need
- Budget or expense tracker
- High-yield savings account
- Automatic transfer setup
Steps to follow
- Calculate three to six months of essential expenses.
- Open a dedicated high-yield savings account.
- Start with a small target (e.g., $500 or one paycheck).
- Automate transfers each payday, even if just $25–$50.
- Increase contributions when income rises or debt decreases.
- Use only for emergencies, not routine spending.
Benefits
Avoid debt
Prevents reliance on credit cards at 20%+ APR.
Peace of mind
Reduces financial stress during crises.
Protect long-term goals
Keeps retirement and investments untouched.
11
Oct
Check your loan interest rates
Review the interest rates on your current loans to see if refinancing makes sense.
What you will need
- Loan statements
- Calculator or spreadsheet
- Online refinancing rate comparison tools
Steps to follow
- Gather all current loan statements and note balances, rates, and terms.
- Use online calculators to estimate monthly payments at lower rates.
- Check current refinancing rates from banks, credit unions, and online lenders.
- Compare potential savings against refinancing fees.
- Contact lenders for quotes or prequalification.
- Decide if refinancing is worth it and apply if beneficial.
Benefits
Lower monthly costs
Reducing a $200,000 mortgage by 1% can save ~$167/month.
Save over loan term
Interest reductions can total $10,000–$30,000+ over decades.
Simplify payments
Consolidation can replace multiple bills with one.
10
Oct
Choose a checking account with low fees
Switch to a checking account that has no monthly fee and broad ATM access.
What you will need
- Current fee list
- Bank/credit union comparisons
- Direct deposit details
- List of automatic payments
Steps to follow
- Identify all fees you currently pay (monthly, ATM, overdraft).
- Compare 3–5 banks for no-fee checking and ATM access.
- Open the new account online.
- Move direct deposit and scheduled payments.
- Keep both accounts open for one cycle to catch any stragglers.
- Close the old account after all payments clear.
Benefits
Fee savings
Avoid $5–$15 monthly fees, which adds up $60–$180/year; ATM fees $2–$6 each.
Overdraft alternatives
Alerts/no-overdraft options can save $100–$300/year.
Better features
Early pay and sub-accounts improve cash flow.
09
Oct
Review extra disaster insurance
Check if you need add-ons like flood, earthquake, or wind coverage.
What you will need
- Home insurance declarations page
- Lender/HOA requirements
- FEMA flood map/local hazard maps
- Quotes from insurers
Steps to follow
- Read your policy exclusions (flood, quake, wind, sewer backup).
- Check hazard maps for your address and elevation.
- Get quotes for needed riders/separate policies.
- Compare deductibles, waiting periods, and coverage limits.
- Bind coverage and set start dates before peak season.
- Store documents and set an annual renewal review reminder.
Benefits
Avoid catastrophic loss
Flood/quake claims can run $10,000–$100,000+.
Mortgage compliance
Avoids costly force-placed insurance.
Faster recovery
Coverage speeds repairs and reduces out-of-pocket.
08
Oct
List your long-term savings goals
Write clear 3–10-year goals with amounts, deadlines, and monthly targets.
What you will need
- Notepad or spreadsheet
- Savings calculator
- Current balances
Steps to follow
- Brainstorm 3–5 big goals (amount and deadline).
- Calculate required monthly savings for each.
- Rank by urgency and impact.
- Assign the right account (HSA, 529, IRA, HYSA).
- Automate transfers on payday.
- Set a reminder to review progress.
Benefits
Clarity creates action
Specific dollar targets increase follow-through.
Avoids spending drift
Prevents scattered spending that costs $1,000s over years.
Tax/Fee smart
Using the right account can save ~$200–$1,000/year.
07
Oct
Automate bill payments to avoid late fees
Turn on auto-pay for fixed bills and set reminders for variable ones.
What you will need
- Bill list (due dates/amounts)
- Bank and provider logins
- Calendar or budgeting app
Steps to follow
- List all monthly bills with amounts and due dates.
- Enable auto-pay for fixed bills (utilities, loans, insurance).
- Set email/SMS alerts for variable bills (credit cards).
- Request due-date changes near payday if allowed.
- Keep a one-month buffer in checking.
Benefits
Fee avoidance
Prevents $25–$40 late fees and penalty APRs.
Credit protection
On-time history lowers future interest costs by $100s.
Time saved
Fewer manual payments each month.
Lifestyle
15
Oct
Repair a loose or broken towel rack
Fix a loose towel rack to keep it sturdy and prevent wall damage.
What you will need
- Screwdriver or drill
- Wall anchors or toggle bolts
- Level
- Pencil
Steps to follow
- Remove the towel rack and check for stripped screws or damaged drywall.
- Mark new holes with a level for alignment.
- Install wall anchors or toggle bolts if no studs are behind the mounting points.
- Reattach the towel rack with screws tightened securely.
- Test by pulling gently to ensure it’s solid.
Benefits
Prevent wall repairs
Reinforcement avoids drywall patching ($100–$300).
Avoid replacements
Keeps racks usable longer, saving $20–$100.
Maintain bathroom function
Secure racks reduce clutter and towel mess.
14
Oct
Dust and clean curtains and blinds
Dust curtains and blinds to improve air quality and extend fabric life.
What you will need
- Vacuum with brush attachment
- Microfiber cloth or duster
- Mild detergent (for washable curtains)
- Step stool
Steps to follow
- Vacuum curtains with a brush attachment to lift dust without damaging fabric.
- Dust blinds gently with a microfiber cloth or duster, slat by slat.
- Wash washable curtains in the machine with mild detergent and hang to dry.
- Wipe curtain rods and window frames to remove hidden dust.
- Rehang curtains or adjust blinds once everything is dry and clean.
Benefits
Avoid dry-cleaning costs
Regular upkeep reduces professional cleaning needs ($50–$150).
Extend fabric life
Less dust and sunlight wear delays replacement ($100–$500 per set).
Improve indoor air quality
Reduces allergens, lowering cleaning and medical costs.
13
Oct
Aerate the lawn
Aerate your lawn to reduce soil compaction and promote stronger grass growth.
What you will need
- Lawn aerator (manual or rental machine)
- Garden rake
- Hose or sprinkler
Steps to follow
- Water the lawn lightly the day before to soften the soil.
- Run the aerator across the yard in straight lines, covering the entire area.
- Rake up soil plugs or leave them to break down naturally.
- Water the lawn again to help soil settle and roots absorb nutrients.
Benefits
Reduce lawn treatments
Healthier roots need less fertilizer, saving $50–$100 yearly.
Avoid full lawn replacement
Aeration prolongs lawn life, avoiding $1,500+ reseeding or sod.
Lower water bills
Looser soil improves absorption, cutting irrigation costs.
12
Oct
Inspect your home’s exterior and do any small repairs
Walk around your home to spot and fix small exterior issues before they become costly.
What you will need
- Notepad or phone (to list repairs)
- Caulk gun and exterior caulk
- Paint and brush (for touch-ups)
- Basic hand tools
Steps to follow
- Walk the full perimeter of your house looking for cracks, gaps, or damage.
- Note small repairs like peeling caulk, chipped paint, or loose siding.
- Apply caulk or touch-up paint where needed to seal and protect surfaces.
- Tighten any loose fixtures like hose bibs or outdoor lights.
- Schedule larger repairs with a pro if you find structural issues.
Benefits
Prevent water damage
Small fixes avoid repairs costing $500–$3,000.
Save on pest control
Sealing gaps stops infestations ($200–$500).
Protect property value
Curb appeal and maintenance support resale value.
11
Oct
Insulate your hot water heater
Wrap your hot water heater with insulation to cut heat loss and save on energy bills.
What you will need
- Water heater insulation blanket
- Scissors or utility knife
- Measuring tape
- Duct tape
Steps to follow
- Measure the water heater to choose the right size insulation blanket.
- Turn off power or gas supply before starting for safety.
- Wrap the insulation blanket around the tank, trimming around pipes, thermostat, and controls.
- Tape seams securely so the blanket stays in place.
- Restore power or gas and enjoy better efficiency.
Benefits
Lower utility bills
Insulation can save $20–$50 annually.
Extend equipment life
Reduces strain on the heating element, delaying replacements ($500–$1,500).
Quick return on investment
Blankets often cost under $40 and pay for themselves in one year.
10
Oct
Have your furnace inspected and cleaned
Schedule a furnace inspection and cleaning to improve efficiency and safety.
What you will need
- Replacement filter (correct size)
Steps to follow
- Book a licensed HVAC technician for a maintenance visit.
- Replace the furnace filter before the appointment.
- Clear a workspace around the unit for access and safety.
- Review the tech’s findings and approve minor fixes on the spot.
Benefits
Lower energy costs
Clean, tuned systems can save $50–$200 per season.
Prevent breakdowns
Catch issues before emergency calls ($150–$400).
Extend furnace life
Regular service delays replacement ($3,000–$8,000).
09
Oct
Repair holes in vinyl siding or broken siding repair
Patch or replace damaged vinyl siding to stop water intrusion and protect your home.
What you will need
- Vinyl siding repair kit or replacement panel
- Zip tool (siding removal tool)
- Utility knife and snips
- Exterior caulk (color-matched if possible)
Steps to follow
- Assess the damage size to choose patch vs. panel replacement.
- Unlock adjacent panels with a zip tool and expose the damaged piece.
- Cut out the damaged area and fit the patch or new panel to size.
- Lock the panel tabs back in place and ensure edges sit flat.
- Seal seams or tiny gaps with exterior caulk to keep water out.
Benefits
Prevent water damage
Stops repairs that can run $500–$2,500.
Maintain curb appeal
A clean fix supports resale value.
Avoid bigger sections later
Small repairs delay full siding projects ($6,000–$15,000+).
08
Oct
Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks
Check your roof for damaged shingles and early leaks before winter storms.
What you will need
- Binoculars (ground check)
- Ladder and safety gear
- Camera/phone for photos
- Roofing cement
- Replacement shingles (optional)
Steps to follow
- Walk the perimeter with binoculars to spot missing or curled shingles.
- Check flashing at chimneys and vents for gaps or cracked sealant.
- Look in the attic for stains, damp insulation, or daylight.
- Photograph problem areas and note locations for repair.
- Seal small issues or book a roofer before storms arrive.
Benefits
Avoid interior damage
Early fixes prevent ceiling/wall repairs ($500–$3,000).
Extend roof life
Timely patches delay re-roofing ($7,000–$15,000+).
Lower insurance risk
Proactive maintenance can reduce claim costs/deductibles.
07
Oct
Replace weatherstripping around windows and doors
Swap worn weatherstripping to seal drafts and reduce heating costs.
What you will need
- Weatherstripping kit (type for your door/window)
- Scissors or utility knife
- Tape measure and pencil
- Small nails or adhesive (as required)
Steps to follow
- Remove old weatherstripping and clean the surface.
- Measure the frame gaps and cut new strips to length.
- Apply the strip evenly along the jambs and header.
- Close the door/window to test seal and adjust if binding.
- Seal any remaining gaps with a thin bead of caulk.
Benefits
Cut heating bills
Draft sealing can save $50–$150 per season.
Prevent moisture damage
Stops cold air leaks that cause condensation and repairs ($200–$1,000).
Delay window/door upgrades
Good seals extend service life ($500–$2,000+).
Pets
26
Aug
Check fences for any gaps or weak spots that pets could exploit to escape
Inspect fence perimeter for holes, loose boards, and gaps underneath that allow pets to escape the yard.
What you will need
- Flashlight
- Shovel
- Hammer
- Nails or screws
- Extra wood, wire, or boards
Steps to follow
- Walk the entire fence perimeter, examining each section for loose or missing boards, broken pickets, or bent chain link.
- Check ground level along the fence line for holes or gaps where pets could dig under or crawl through.
- Test fence stability by gently pushing on posts and boards to identify loose connections or rotting wood.
- Examine gate hinges, latches, and closures to ensure they function properly and close securely.
- Measure any gaps larger than your pet's head, as animals can often squeeze through surprisingly small openings.
- Note locations and sizes of problems found for repair planning.
Benefits
Don't lose your furry friend
Reduces risk of liability if a pet escapes and causes damage
No pricey vet bills
Avoids potential $475–$1,080+ veterinary bills from traffic accidents or injuries while loose
Stay secure
Extends fence life by fixing small issues before full replacement
31
Jul
Ensure your doghouse is moved to a shady spot and has ventilation for air flow
If you’re hot, your dog’s hotter. It’s National Pet Backyard Safety Day. Let’s sort their shelter. Move the doghouse to a shady spot. Check for airflow to keep them cool—you can cut vents if needed. Add a cooling mat or frozen water bottle inside. Hydration and shade make one happy pup.
12
Jan
Set up a pet emergency fund
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
- Decide on an initial goal, such as $300–$500.
- Open a separate savings account labeled “Pet Emergency Fund.”
- Set up an automatic monthly transfer, even $10–$25 helps.
- Add to the fund when possible (tax refunds, bonuses).
- 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.
Tech
14
Aug
Clean out the dust buildup in your computer
Clean dust from your computer to prevent overheating and hardware damage.
What you will need
- Screwdriver
- Compressed air canister
- Soft brush
- Microfiber cloth
Steps to follow
- Turn off and unplug the computer before opening the case.
- Remove the side panel with a screwdriver to access internal components.
- Blow out dust with compressed air focusing on fans, vents, and heatsinks.
- Brush off stubborn dust gently from surfaces and corners.
- Wipe the case exterior with a microfiber cloth before reassembling.
Benefits
Prevents repair costs
Prevents overheating and hardware failure ($200–$500 repair cost)
Improved temperature management
Extends computer lifespan by 2–3 years through proper temperature management
Get better processing speed
Maintains performance by preventing thermal throttling that slows processing speed