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
27
Oct
Conduct an insurance review
Review your insurance policies to ensure coverage matches your needs.
What you will need
- Current policy documents (auto, home, life, health)
- Quotes from alternative providers
- Calculator for premiums vs. coverage
Steps to follow
- Collect all current policy documents.
- Note coverage amounts, exclusions, and premiums.
- Check for life changes (new home, children, marriage) that affect needs.
- Get quotes from at least two other providers.
- Adjust coverage or switch if savings and protection improve.
Benefits
Avoid overpaying
Switching providers can save $200–$500/year.
Fill coverage gaps
Prevents costly out-of-pocket claims.
Peace of mind
Confidence that policies match your current life stage.
26
Oct
Calculate your net worth
Add up your assets and subtract your debts to see your net worth.
What you will need
- List of assets (bank balances, investments, property value)
- List of liabilities (loans, credit card balances, mortgage)
- Calculator or spreadsheet
Steps to follow
- List all assets with current balances or values.
- Record all debts and outstanding balances.
- Subtract liabilities from assets.
- Enter the number in a spreadsheet or app to keep track.
Benefits
Clear picture
Understand exactly where you stand financially.
Track progress
See improvement as debts fall and savings grow.
Set goals
Use net worth as a benchmark for financial planning.
25
Oct
Use a budgeting app to track progress
Download and use a budgeting app to monitor your spending and saving.
What you will need
- Smartphone or computer
- Budgeting app
- Bank login credentials
Steps to follow
- Download a budgeting app of your choice.
- Connect it securely to your bank accounts and credit cards.
- Set up budget categories for housing, food, transport, and savings.
- Review spending reports weekly.
- Adjust categories if you overspend.
- Track progress toward savings or debt goals.
Benefits
Control spending
Identifies leaks and helps cut $100+ monthly.
Reach goals faster
Keeps you on track for saving and debt payoff.
Reduce stress
Gives a clear picture of your finances.
24
Oct
Create your will
Draft a will to decide how your assets will be distributed.
What you will need
- List of assets and debts
- Names of beneficiaries and executor
- Will template or attorney services
Steps to follow
- Make a list of all assets (bank accounts, property, valuables).
- Choose beneficiaries and backup beneficiaries.
- Select an executor to manage the estate.
- Write the will using a template or attorney.
- Sign in front of witnesses as required by law.
- Store the will safely and tell your executor where it is.
Benefits
Avoid probate costs
A will can save heirs $1,000–$5,000 in fees.
Protect family
Prevents disputes and confusion.
Peace of mind
Ensures assets are distributed as you wish.
23
Oct
Reset your online banking passwords
Update your online banking passwords to improve security.
What you will need
- Bank login credentials
- Secure password manager
- Personal device with internet
Steps to follow
- Log into your bank’s website or app.
- Go to account settings and select “change password.”
- Create a strong password with letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Save it securely in a password manager.
- Enable two-factor authentication if available.
- Log out and test your new login.
Benefits
Stronger security
Prevents account takeovers and fraud.
Peace of mind
Reduces worry about stolen credentials.
Protect savings
Safeguards funds from unauthorized access.
22
Oct
Create a grocery list to avoid impulse buys
Plan meals and make a grocery list to avoid unplanned purchases.
What you will need
- Notepad or grocery app
- Weekly meal plan
- Pantry and fridge check
Steps to follow
- Review your pantry and fridge for what you already have.
- Plan meals for the week, including snacks.
- Write down only what you need to complete those meals.
- Organize the list by store sections (produce, dairy, frozen).
- Stick to the list while shopping.
- Save receipts to track food spending.
Benefits
Save at checkout
Avoiding impulse buys can save $20–$50 per trip.
Reduce food waste
Using what you buy prevents $50–$100/month in waste.
Save time
A list makes grocery runs faster and easier.
21
Oct
Review utility bills and find opportunities to save
Check your utility bills for errors, overcharges, or ways to reduce usage.
What you will need
- Latest utility bills (electricity, gas, water, internet)
- Calculator or spreadsheet
- Provider customer service contacts
Steps to follow
- Gather the last three to six months of utility bills.
- Compare costs and note unusual spikes.
- Check for errors, duplicate fees, or outdated plans.
- Call providers to ask about discounts or lower-rate plans.
- Implement energy-saving changes (LED bulbs, thermostat settings).
Benefits
Cut monthly costs
Reducing utilities by $20/month saves $240/year.
Prevent overcharges
Catching billing errors can recover $50–$200.
Lower long-term expenses
Efficiency upgrades reduce ongoing costs.
20
Oct
Renegotiate your phone bill
Call your provider to ask for discounts, lower plans, or promotions.
What you will need
- Current phone bill
- Competitor plan pricing
- Provider customer service number
Steps to follow
- Review your current monthly charges.
- Compare competitor offers online.
- Call your provider and mention competitor deals.
- Ask about loyalty discounts or lower-cost plans.
- Negotiate politely but firmly.
- Confirm new rates and monitor your next bill.
Benefits
Monthly savings
Discounts often reduce bills by $10–$30/month.
Annual impact
$20 saved monthly adds up to $240/year.
Better value
New plans may include more data or features.
19
Oct
Research one key investing concept and how it affects your future wealth
Pick one investing concept and learn how it affects your finances.
What you will need
- Internet access
- Trusted finance site/book
- Notebook or app
Steps to follow
- Select a concept (e.g., diversification).
- Research on Investopedia or a trusted site.
- Read or watch a short explainer.
- Write down how it applies to your goals.
- Discuss with a friend to reinforce learning.
- Apply the idea in your savings or investing strategy.
Benefits
Grow your wealth smarter
Avoid costly mistakes.
Build confidence
Lowers fear of investing.
Long-term impact
Small changes can yield $1,000s in returns.
Home
27
Oct
Adjust your programmable thermostat or consider installing one
Update your thermostat settings—or install a programmable model—to save energy and money.
What you will need
- Programmable thermostat (if upgrading)
- Screwdriver and drill (for installation)
- Owner’s manual or app
Steps to follow
- Review your thermostat settings and adjust for your fall/winter schedule.
- Lower temps by 7ºF–10°F overnight or while away for energy savings.
- If upgrading, turn off power and remove the old thermostat.
- Install the new programmable unit following the manual.
- Test the system to confirm it runs on the new schedule.
Benefits
Cut energy bills
Adjusting temps can save $180 annually on heating/cooling.
Increase efficiency
Reduces strain on HVAC equipment, delaying repairs.
Boost home value
Smart thermostats add modern appeal.
26
Oct
Wipe down remote controls, keyboards, and TV remotes
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
- Power off or remove batteries from remotes and keyboards before cleaning.
- Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with alcohol and wipe all surfaces and buttons.
- Use cotton swabs around creases and keys to lift grime from tight spots.
- Blow debris from between keys with compressed air if needed.
- 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.
25
Oct
Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter of buildup
Scrub your range hood and clean the filter to reduce grease buildup and fire risk.
What you will need
- Degreasing cleaner
- Warm, soapy water
- Sponge or scrub brush
- Replacement filter (if needed)
Steps to follow
- Turn off the hood fan and unplug if possible.
- Remove the filter and soak in warm, soapy water.
- Spray the hood interior and exterior with degreaser.
- Scrub away grease buildup with a sponge or brush.
- Rinse and dry the filter, reinstall it, or replace with a new one.
Benefits
Avoid fire hazards
Reduces grease buildup that can ignite ($5,000+ fire damage).
Save on energy bills
Clean filters improve airflow, lowering costs ($25–$75 annually).
Extend appliance life
Keeps fan motor from overworking, delaying replacements ($300–$600).
24
Oct
Install a smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement
Add smoke detectors on each level of your home to improve fire safety.
What you will need
- Smoke detectors (enough for each level)
- Drill or screwdriver
- Screws and anchors (if not included)
Steps to follow
- Choose a spot on the ceiling or high on the wall away from vents.
- Use screws and anchors to mount the detector bracket.
- Attach the detector to the bracket until it locks in place.
- Test the alarm using the “Test” button.
- Repeat for every floor and write down installation dates.
Benefits
Reduce fire losses
Early detection prevents fire damage costing $10,000+.
Save on insurance
Some policies provide discount for proper safety devices.
Protect lives
Working detectors double survival chances in a fire.
23
Oct
Check the water heater for leaks
Inspect your water heater for leaks to prevent costly water damage.
What you will need
- Flashlight
- Paper towels or rag
- Bucket (if draining)
Steps to follow
- Shine a flashlight around the base of the heater to check for moisture.
- Check pipe connections and valves for drips or rust stains.
- Wipe areas with a rag to detect fresh leaks.
- Drain a few gallons to test the drain valve if it looks corroded.
- Call a plumber if you find steady leaks or rust on the tank.
Benefits
Prevent water damage
Early fixes avoid repairs costing $1,000–$5,000.
Extend heater life
Fixing valves and fittings delays replacement ($800–$1,500).
Lower utility bills
Efficient, leak-free units waste less energy.
22
Oct
Check wiper blades and replace if necessary
Inspect your wiper blades and swap them if streaking or cracked for safer driving.
What you will need
- Replacement wiper blades (correct size)
- Owner’s manual
Steps to follow
- Lift the wiper arms away from the windshield.
- Release the old blade by pressing the tab or latch.
- Slide the new blade into place until it clicks.
- Lower the wiper arm gently back onto the glass.
- Test with washer fluid to confirm smooth wiping.
Benefits
Avoid accidents
Better visibility reduces collision risk and repair costs.
Save on glass damage
Fresh blades prevent scratches on windshields ($200–$500 repair).
Cost-effective maintenance
Blades cost $20–$50, far less than potential damage.
21
Oct
Drain, clean, and cover your swimming pool if you live in a colder climate
Winterize your pool by draining, cleaning, and covering it to prevent damage in cold weather.
What you will need
- Submersible pump or pool pump
- Pool brush and skimmer net
- Pool winter cover and securing straps
- Water test kit (optional for balancing before closing)
Steps to follow
- Vacuum and skim the pool to remove leaves and dirt.
- Lower the water level below the skimmer using a pump.
- Brush the walls and floor to clear algae or buildup.
- Secure the winter cover tightly to block debris and snow.
- Check straps and edges to make sure the cover won’t loosen in wind.
Benefits
Prevent repair bills
Protects pipes and liners from freeze damage ($1,000–$5,000).
Save on spring cleanup costs
Covered pools need less chemical shock and cleaning ($100–$300).
Extend equipment life
Proper closing keeps pumps and filters in good shape.
20
Oct
Replace your air filters
Swap out dirty HVAC filters to save energy and improve air quality.
What you will need
- Replacement air filter (correct size)
- Screwdriver (if panel requires it)
Steps to follow
- Turn off the HVAC system at the thermostat.
- Open the filter panel and slide out the old filter.
- Check the size on the filter frame and get the correct replacement.
- Insert the new filter with arrows pointing toward airflow.
- Close the panel and restart the system to confirm proper operation.
Benefits
Lower energy bills
Clean filters cut HVAC costs by up to 15% (~$100–$200 annually).
Avoid repairs
Prevents blower motor strain ($300–$600).
Improve air quality
Cleaner indoor air reduces allergy trea
19
Oct
Touch up indoor and outdoor paint for wear and tear
Repaint scuffed or worn areas indoors and outdoors to protect surfaces and freshen your home.
What you will need
- Matching paint
- Paintbrushes or rollers
- Sandpaper
- Painter’s tape and drop cloth
Steps to follow
- Clean and sand the worn area to smooth rough edges.
- Tape off nearby surfaces to keep lines clean.
- Apply primer if needed on bare wood or drywall.
- Paint over the spot with matching paint using a brush or roller.
- Allow to dry and apply a second coat for even coverage.
Benefits
Prevent water damage
Sealed surfaces stop costly rot or leaks ($500–$2,000).
Delay full repainting
Small touch-ups extend the life of big jobs ($3,000–$8,000).
Boost resale value
Fresh paint improves curb appeal.