The end of the year has a way of sneaking up on all of us. Between holidays, travel, and an endless to-do list, it’s easy to overlook important health and financial benefits that can save you real money. The good news? A few simple steps before December 31st can help you protect your coverage, avoid unnecessary expenses, and head into 2026 feeling confident and prepared.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you make the most of what’s available before the year wraps up.
If you’ve already met your deductible, now is the ideal time to schedule any remaining check-ups, procedures, or follow-ups. Once January arrives and your deductible resets, those same services may cost more out of pocket.
For those who have met their deductible or out-of-pocket maximum, refilling recurring prescriptions now can help you stretch your savings further before costs reset for the new year.
FSAs often follow a “use it or lose it” structure. Unless your plan includes a rollover or grace period, any unused funds may disappear at year’s end. Now is the time to spend remaining balances on eligible medical, dental, or vision expenses.
If you still have unused dental or vision benefits, get appointments scheduled as soon as possible. If your provider is fully booked, ask to be added to the cancellation list — last-minute openings are common this time of year.
You can make HSA contributions through year-end, and the triple tax advantage — tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified expenses — makes it well worth maximizing if you’re able.
If you’re unsure about what benefits you still have available or what’s covered, don’t hesitate to ask for help. A quick conversation with your plan administrator or advisor can give you clarity and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Taking a few intentional steps now can bring meaningful savings and peace of mind as you head into a new year. There’s still time to make the most of your benefits — and you don’t have to navigate it alone. If you have questions, the Zinn team is here to help.
