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

18 Dec
Taxes

Check in with your tax professional

Time to complete: 45 min

Difficulty: Easy

Schedule a quick year-end review with your tax advisor to get ahead of next year’s filing.

What you will need

  • Notes about life changes this year
  • Pay stubs or income records
  • Your tax professional’s contact information

Steps to follow

  1. Contact your tax advisor and request a short year-end appointment.
  2. Bring notes on major events (job changes, marriage, dependents, home sale/purchase).
  3. Ask about expected taxes, potential deductions, and steps to take before the end of the year.
  4. Gather any documents they recommend for easy filing next year.
  5. Schedule a reminder to follow up early next year if needed.

Benefits

Avoid last-minute stress

Know what’s coming before tax season.

Improve accuracy

Get professional advice on deductions and changes.

Optimize year-end moves

Make smart decisions before deadlines.

17 Dec
Insurance

Consider low-cost insurance for smaller devices

Time to complete: 30 min

Difficulty: Easy

Look into affordable protection plans for everyday electronics and small devices.

What you will need

  • Device purchase receipts
  • Manufacturer warranty info
  • Credit card benefits guide

Steps to follow

  1. List the small devices you use daily and how much they’d cost to replace.
  2. Check if they already have protection through your credit card or manufacturer.
  3. Compare low-cost coverage plans from carriers or third-party insurers.
  4. Choose coverage only for high-use or high-cost items.
  5. Save documentation so you can file claims easily.

Benefits

Reduce replacement costs

Repairs or replacements can be much cheaper through insurance.

Protect frequently used devices

Coverage for accidental damage or loss.

Avoid unexpected expenses

Helps keep your budget stable.

16 Dec
Financial Planning

Consider a Roth conversion

Time to complete: 45 min

Difficulty: Medium

Review whether converting part of your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA makes sense for your tax situation.

What you will need

  • Traditional and Roth IRA account login
  • Income and tax estimates
  • Calculator or tax software

Steps to follow

  1. Look up your current year income and expected tax bracket.
  2. Estimate how much tax you’d owe on the amount you want to convert.
  3. Ask yourself whether you can pay that tax bill using money outside your IRA.
  4. Decide whether converting this year or waiting until next year makes more sense.
  5. If converting, follow your brokerage’s Roth conversion process before year-end.

Benefits

Potential tax savings

Converting at the right time can reduce lifetime taxes.

Tax-free retirement income

Roth withdrawals aren’t taxed later.

More flexibility

Roth IRAs don’t have required minimum distributions.

15 Dec
Saving

Open or add to a 529 college savings plan

Time to complete: 35 min

Difficulty: Easy

Contribute to a 529 plan before year-end to take advantage of available tax benefits in your state.

What you will need

  • State 529 plan website
  • Beneficiary information
  • Bank account for contributions

Steps to follow

  1. Look up your state's 529 plan to review tax benefits and contribution rules.
  2. Gather the beneficiary’s details (name, birthdate, Social Security number).
  3. Open a new account or log into your existing one.
  4. Make a year-end contribution, even a small amount.

Benefits

Save on taxes

Many states offer deductions or credits.

Grow education funds

Earnings grow tax-free.

Support long-term goals

Helps fund college or career training.

14 Dec
Taxes

Keep track of HSA reimbursements and receipts

Time to complete: 40 min

Difficulty: Medium

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) allow tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses, but you must keep good records. Tracking receipts ensures you can reimburse yourself months or even years later. Clear, organized receipts help you avoid mistakes and maximize the tax benefits of your HSA.

What you will need

  • HSA account login
  • Paper or digital filing system
  • Receipts for medical expenses
  • Spreadsheet or tracking app

Steps to follow

  1. Collect all medical receipts for the year, both digital and paper.
  2. Create a folder labeled “HSA Reimbursements” for easy tracking.
  3. Log each expense with date, amount, and purpose.
  4. Upload photos or scans so you have backups.

Benefits

Protect your tax advantage

Proper records make withdrawals tax-free.

Stay organized

Avoid scrambling during tax season.

Build long-term value

Unused HSA funds can stay invested and grow.

13 Dec
Spending

Set alerts on your credit cards for transactions over a set amount

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Turn on credit card alerts so you’re notified instantly when large purchases occur.

What you will need

  • Credit card mobile app
  • Online banking access
  • Notification settings

Steps to follow

  1. Open your credit card app and find the “alerts” or “notifications” section.
  2. Choose a transaction amount that makes sense for your budget.
  3. Turn on SMS, email, or push notifications.
  4. Watch for any unexpected alerts and report anything suspicious immediately.

Benefits

Catch fraud fast

Instant alerts help stop unauthorized charges.

Stay within budget

Awareness keeps spending in check.

Feel more in control

Real-time updates build good habits.

12 Dec
Taxes

Adjust your W-4

Time to complete: 30 min

Difficulty: Easy

Update your W-4 to make sure your tax withholdings are accurate.

What you will need

  • Employer payroll portal
  • Recent pay stub
  • IRS withholding estimator

Steps to follow

  1. Log into your payroll or HR portal to find the W-4 section.
  2. Use the IRS withholding calculator to estimate the right amount of tax.
  3. Update your W-4 based on your current income and personal situation.
  4. Submit the changes and check your next paycheck to confirm accuracy.

Benefits

Avoid tax surprises

Prevents big bills or huge refunds.

Match your current situation

Reflects changes in dependents or income.

Improve monthly cash flow

Ensures your paycheck feels “just right.”

11 Dec
Insurance

Submit out of network insurance claims

Time to complete: 45 min

Difficulty: Medium

Send any out-of-network medical bills or receipts to your insurance company for reimbursement.

What you will need

  • Insurance claim form
  • Itemized bills and receipts
  • Explanation of benefits (EOB)
  • Insurance portal login

Steps to follow

  1. Gather all receipts and itemized bills from out-of-network providers.
  2. Log in to your insurance portal to find the claim submission form.
  3. Fill in required information such as visit date, provider, and billing codes.
  4. Attach scanned receipts or upload photos of the documents.
  5. Submit the claim and check back for updates or additional requests.

Benefits

Save money

Get reimbursed for eligible expenses.

Reduce tax stress

Organized medical receipts help with deductions.

Avoid lost claims

Submitting now prevents missed deadlines.

10 Dec
Taxes

Categorize your home office expenses

Time to complete: 50 min

Difficulty: Medium

Organize and track your home office expenses to prepare for tax season.

What you will need

  • Receipts (digital or paper)
  • Spreadsheet or tax software
  • Folder for organizing documents

Steps to follow

  1. Gather all receipts and statements related to your home office from the past year.
  2. Sort them into categories: equipment, utilities, internet, and supplies.
  3. Log each category into a spreadsheet for tax tracking.
  4. Check IRS rules to understand what counts as deductible.

Benefits

Save on taxes

Organized records make deductions easier.

Reduce stress

No last-minute scrambling at tax time.

Improve accuracy

Clear categories prevent missed deductions.

Lifestyle

18 Dec
Electrical Appliance

Test space heaters for safe operation

Time to complete: 10 min

Difficulty: Easy

Test space heaters to ensure they operate safely during winter.

What you will need

  • Outlet with clear space
  • Power strip with surge protection
  • Flashlight

Steps to follow

  1. Plug in the heater and turn it on low.
  2. Check the tip-over switch by gently tilting the unit.
  3. Verify heat output feels consistent.
  4. Inspect the cord for cracks or frays.
  5. Keep heaters away from fabrics and test in a clear area.

Benefits

Reduce fire risk

Prevent dangerous malfunctions.

Avoid replacement costs

Identify issues early ($50–$150 saved).

Improve efficiency

Ensures reliable heating.

16 Dec
Electrical Appliance

Clear snow from outdoor vents

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Clear snow away from all outdoor vents to keep your home safe and appliances working properly.

What you will need

  • Snow shovel
  • Gloves
  • Broom

Steps to follow

  1. Locate your outdoor vents for the dryer, furnace, and bathroom fans.
  2. Clear snow and ice at least one foot around each vent.
  3. Brush off any remaining buildup with a broom.
  4. Check airflow by turning the appliance on briefly.

Benefits

Prevent CO2 buildup

Blocked furnace vents can be dangerous.

Improve appliance efficiency

Better airflow lowers energy costs.

Avoid repairs

Prevent overheating and clogs that cost $100–$300.

15 Dec
Interior Decorating

Consider regifting old gifts you never use

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Declutter unused gifts and consider regifting them thoughtfully.

What you will need

  • Donation box
  • Sticky notes
  • Storage bin

Steps to follow

  1. Gather unused gifts from closets and drawers.
  2. Sort by condition—keep, donate, or regift.
  3. Label potential regifts so you remember who gave them originally.
  4. Store regift-worthy items in a dedicated box.
  5. Donate anything not suitable for regifting.

Benefits

Reduce clutter

Free up storage space without buying new bins.

Save money

Regifting reduces gift expenses ($20–$100).

Lower waste

Keeps unused items out of landfills.

13 Dec
Home Renovation

Check the basement for leaks during thaws

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Inspect your basement for leaks during winter thaws to prevent water damage.

What you will need

  • Flashlight
  • Towel or moisture meter
  • Notepad

Steps to follow

  1. Walk the basement perimeter during or after a thaw.
  2. Check walls and floors for wet spots or seepage.
  3. Feel for dampness using a towel or moisture meter.
  4. Inspect around windows and utility fittings for leaks.
  5. Record and monitor any areas showing moisture.

Benefits

Avoid basement repairs

Water damage can cost $1,000–$5,000.

Catch structural issues early

Prevents long-term foundation repairs.

Reduce mold risks

Early detection avoids remediation costs.

12 Dec
Home Renovation

Shovel decks and patios

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Clear snow from decks and patios to prevent moisture damage and surface rot.

What you will need

  • Plastic snow shovel (safer for decking)
  • Ice melt (deck-safe)
  • Broom

Steps to follow

  1. Use a plastic shovel to remove snow in the direction of the boards.
  2. Sweep remaining snow to clear moisture pockets.
  3. Apply a deck-safe ice melt on slippery areas.
  4. Check railings for ice buildup and knock it away gently.

Benefits

Prevent costly repairs

Deck rot repairs can cost $500–$3,000.

Avoid slipping injuries

Safer walking surfaces reduce medical bills.

Extend deck life

Moisture control delays resurfacing or replacement.

10 Dec
Electrical Appliance

Clean out your freezer

Time to complete: 25 min

Difficulty: Easy

Sort your freezer contents and toss freezer-burned food to save space and reduce waste.

What you will need

  • Trash bag
  • Marker and labels
  • Microfiber cloth

Steps to follow

  1. Empty one shelf at a time to avoid thawing.
  2. Check each item for excessive ice crystals or damaged packaging.
  3. Discard freezer-burned food safely.
  4. Label and reorganize remaining items by category.
  5. Wipe down shelves before restocking.

Benefits

Reduce food waste

Eliminates spoiled items ($20–$50 saved monthly).

Improve efficiency

Less clutter helps the freezer cool evenly.

Save money

Knowing what you have prevents duplicate purchases.

09 Dec
Interior Decorating

Move cleaning supplies out of pets’ reach

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Store medications and cleaning products safely to protect pets from accidental ingestion.

What you will need

  • Cabinet locks
  • High shelves or storage bins
  • Labels

Steps to follow

  1. Gather medications and cleaners from low or open areas.
  2. Move them to high cabinets or install child/pet safety locks.
  3. Use labeled bins to keep everything organized.
  4. Secure the cabinet fully before letting pets roam.

Benefits

Avoid emergency vet bills

Prevent ingestion incidents ($200–$1,000).

Protect pets

Reduced risk of toxic exposure.

Improve home safety

Keeps dangerous items away from kids too.

08 Dec
Home Renovation

Clear snow and ice around your entry and pathways

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Remove snow and ice from your entry and walkways to prevent slips and improve access.

What you will need

  • Snow shovel
  • Ice melt or sand
  • Gloves

Steps to follow

  1. Shovel fresh snow from walkways and steps.
  2. Spread ice melt or sand to increase traction.
  3. Break up stubborn ice patches with a sturdy shovel.
  4. Recheck later if temperatures drop again.

Benefits

Prevent injuries

Avoid medical bills from slips ($500–$5,000).

Protect surfaces

Less freeze–thaw stress reduces repairs.

Improve accessibility

Safer paths for deliveries and guests

07 Dec
Electrical Appliance

Clean your gas burners

Time to complete: 30 min

Difficulty: Medium

Clean and inspect gas burners to improve safety, reduce CO₂ risks, and boost cooking performance.

What you will need

  • Brush or toothpick
  • Mild dish soap
  • Cloth
  • Warm water

Steps to follow

  1. Turn off the stove and remove burner caps.
  2. Brush burner ports gently to remove debris.
  3. Soak caps in soapy water and scrub clean.
  4. Wipe the stovetop and dry all parts.
  5. Reassemble burners and check for a blue flame.

Benefits

Improve efficiency

Stronger flames reduce cooking time.

Prevent CO₂ issues

Clean burners reduce incomplete combustion.

Avoid repairs

Prevent clogged ports that lead to service calls ($100–$200 saved).

Tech

17 Dec
Consumer Electronics

Clean the fan filters inside gaming consoles

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Remove dust from console and computer fans to prevent overheating and improve performance.

What you will need

  • Compressed air
  • Soft brush
  • Microfiber cloth

Steps to follow

  1. Unplug the console or PC and move it to a well-ventilated area.
  2. Use compressed air to blow dust from vents and fans.
  3. Brush away stubborn buildup gently.
  4. Wipe the exterior with a microfiber cloth.
  5. Reassemble and restart to confirm proper airflow.

Benefits

Prevent overheating repairs

Saves $100–$300 in service fees.

Improve speed

Better airflow keeps systems running smoothly.

Extend device lifespan

Clean fans reduce long-term heat damage.

14 Dec
Consumer Electronics

Check outdoor camera positions after storms or high winds

Time to complete: 10 min

Difficulty: Easy

Make sure outdoor security cameras are aligned and functioning properly after storms.

What you will need

  • Phone or camera app
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Ladder (if mounted high)

Steps to follow

  1. Open your camera app to check live views.
  2. Adjust camera angles if storms shifted them.
  3. Wipe lenses clean of snow, water spots, or debris.
  4. Test motion detection by walking past the camera.

Benefits

Improve security

Prevent blind spots that compromise safety.

Avoid service costs

Minor fixes prevent hardware damage ($50–$100 saved).

Ensure clear footage

Better visibility helps with insurance claims.

11 Dec
Consumer Electronics

Check power strips and surge protectors

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Inspect surge protectors to make sure they’re working before winter storms hit.

What you will need

  • Flashlight
  • Replacement surge protector
  • Power strip with surge indicator

Steps to follow

  1. Inspect surge protectors for cracks, melted spots, or loose plugs.
  2. Check the indicator light to confirm surge protection is still active.
  3. Replace any protectors older than 3–5 years or showing wear.
  4. Test connected devices to ensure proper operation.

Benefits

Protect electronics

Prevent surge damage costing $200–$1,000+.

Extend device life

Stable power reduces wear on sensitive components.

Improve safety

Less risk of electrical fires from overloaded strips.

29 Nov
Consumer Electronics

Clean TV screens and monitor displays

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean TV and monitor screens for a clear, streak-free view.

What you will need

  • Microfiber cloth
  • Distilled water or screen-safe cleaning spray
  • Compressed air (optional)

Steps to follow

  1. Turn off and unplug your screen to see smudges clearly.
  2. Wipe gently with a dry microfiber cloth to lift dust.
  3. Lightly mist the cloth with cleaner (never spray directly).
  4. Wipe in circular motions until streaks are gone.
  5. Clean frames and stands before plugging back in.

Benefits

Avoid screen repairs

Prevents scratches or coating damage ($150–$500).

Improve clarity

Cleaner displays reduce eye strain and boost brightness.

Save on replacements

Gentle cleaning extends device lifespan.

27 Nov
Consumer Electronics

Back up your phone data

Time to complete: 25 min

Difficulty: Easy

Back up your phone before holiday trips to protect your photos, contacts, and documents.

What you will need

  • Phone charger
  • Wi-Fi connection
  • Cloud storage account or external drive

Steps to follow

  1. Connect your phone to Wi-Fi and open your backup settings.
  2. Run a full cloud backup or transfer files to an external drive.
  3. Confirm photos, videos, and contacts are included.
  4. Update phone software while plugged in for faster performance.
  5. Double-check your backup date before traveling.

Benefits

Prevent data loss

Avoid recovery costs ($300–$1,000).

Save time

Quick restore if your phone’s lost or replaced.

Peace of mind

Keeps memories and contacts secure while traveling.

20 Nov
Consumer Electronics

Back up important files and photos

Time to complete: 40 min

Difficulty: Easy

Save copies of your most important files and photos to protect them from loss or damage.

What you will need

  • Cloud storage account or external hard drive
  • Computer and charging cable
  • Backup software (optional)

Steps to follow

  1. Connect your backup drive or sign into cloud storage.
  2. Select key folders (photos, documents, tax files, etc.).
  3. Upload or copy files using drag-and-drop or a backup program.
  4. Confirm completion and test by opening a few files.
  5. Label and store drives safely or keep your cloud password secure.

Benefits

Prevent data loss

Saves irreplaceable photos or work files.

Avoid recovery costs

Professional file recovery can cost $300–$1,000.

Save time

A clean annual backup keeps files organized.

03 Nov
Consumer Electronics

Check your smart home system

Time to complete: 40 min

Difficulty: Easy

Review smart home devices, update firmware, and optimize schedules for comfort, security, and savings.

What you will need

  • Phone/tablet with device apps
  • Fresh batteries for sensors
  • Wi-Fi analyzer (in-app or built-in)

Steps to follow

  1. Open each device app and install pending firmware/security updates.
  2. Replace low batteries in sensors, locks, and remotes.
  3. Review automations and schedules (away, sleep, holiday modes) and adjust for winter.
  4. Test cameras, doorbells, and locks to confirm alerts and remote access works.
  5. Check Wi-Fi strength at devices and reposition or add an extender if signals are weak.

Benefits

Cut energy waste

Smarter schedules can save $50–$150 annually.

Avoid false alarms/service calls

Healthy sensors reduce nuisance issues ($50–$150).

Protect devices

Updates improve security and extend useful life.

31 Oct
Consumer Electronics

Inspect cables and cords for wear, cracks, or exposed wires; replace if necessary

Time to complete: 20 min

Difficulty: Easy

Check power and charging cords for damage and replace unsafe ones to prevent shorts and fires.

What you will need

  • Flashlight
  • Cable ties/Velcro straps
  • Replacement certified cables (UL/ETL, MFi/USB-IF where applicable)

Steps to follow

  1. Unplug cords and lay them out so you can check the full length.
  2. Inspect plugs, strain reliefs, and jackets for splits, kinks, burn marks, or exposed wire.
  3. Discard and replace any damaged cords with certified equivalents of the right rating.
  4. Re-route cables away from heat, sharp edges, and pinch points to prevent future wear.
  5. Bundle excess length with Velcro straps and label important chargers for easy identification.

Benefits

Prevent device damage

Bad cords can fry ports, avoiding $100–$400 in repairs.

Reduce fire risk

Replacing compromised cables helps avoid costly emergencies.

Save on replacements

Proper routing and strain relief extend cable life ($20–$60 saved over a year).

26 Oct
Consumer Electronics

Wipe down remote controls, keyboards, and TV remotes

Time to complete: 15 min

Difficulty: Easy

Disinfect and clean remotes and keyboards to reduce germs and keep buttons working smoothly.

What you will need

  • 70% isopropyl alcohol or electronics wipes
  • Microfiber cloths and cotton swabs
  • Compressed air (optional)

Steps to follow

  1. Power off or remove batteries from remotes and keyboards before cleaning.
  2. Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with alcohol and wipe all surfaces and buttons.
  3. Use cotton swabs around creases and keys to lift grime from tight spots.
  4. Blow debris from between keys with compressed air if needed.
  5. Let everything dry fully and then reinstall batteries or power back on.

Benefits

Avoid replacements

Clean inputs last longer, saving $20–$100 per device.

Prevent repair calls

Fewer stuck keys and misfires reduce service needs ($50–$150).

Cut sick-day costs

Fewer shared-surface germs can reduce minor illness expenses.