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
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.
17
Oct
Have your car battery checked by a mechanic
Test your car battery to avoid getting stranded with a dead engine.
Steps to follow
- Schedule a quick visit to a mechanic or auto parts store for a battery check.
- Have them test voltage and cold cranking amps to measure health.
- Replace the battery if readings are weak or it’s more than 3–5 years old.
- Ask about terminal cleaning to improve connections.
- Keep records of the test and replacement date for future checks.
Benefits
Avoid towing fees
Catching battery failure early prevents breakdowns ($100–$300).
Protect electrical system
Healthy batteries prevent starter/alternator stress ($300–$800 repairs).
Extend battery life
Regular checks can squeeze out extra months of use ($100–$200 saved).
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
04
Nov
Check your contributions to 401k and other retirement before end of year
Make sure you’re on track to maximize retirement contributions before year end.
What you will need
- Pay stubs or HR portal access
- Retirement account statements
- Calculator for contribution limits
Steps to follow
- Check how much you’ve contributed so far this year.
- Compare it to annual contribution limits ($23,500 for a 401(k) in 2025).
- If possible, increase contributions for remaining pay periods.
- Confirm you’re receiving any employer match.
- Note any changes needed for next year’s plan.
Benefits
Boost long-term growth
More contributions mean more compounding.
Reduce taxes
Traditional contributions lower taxable income.
Maximize employer match
Don’t miss free retirement money.
03
Nov
Review what you’ve donated this year
Check your charitable donations and set a giving plan for next year.
What you will need
- Donation receipts or statements
- Tax software or accountant
- Charity list for next year
Steps to follow
- Collect all donation receipts for the year.
- Total your contributions and confirm eligible tax deductions.
- Review which causes matter most to you.
- Set a monthly or quarterly giving plan for next year.
- Store digital copies of receipts for tax filing.
Benefits
Tax savings
Eligible deductions can reduce taxable income.
Simpler recordkeeping
Organizes receipts before tax season.
Consistent generosity
Budgeted giving is easier to sustain.
02
Nov
Create an emergency fund
Build a financial cushion equal to three to six months of living 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 basic living expenses.
- Open a separate high-yield savings account.
- Set up automatic transfers from checking each payday.
- Start small and increase contributions over time.
- Use funds only for true emergencies.
Benefits
Avoid debt
Prevents reliance on credit cards during crises.
Peace of mind
Reduces stress when unexpected costs arise.
Build financial stability
Creates a buffer between you and uncertainty.
01
Nov
Rebalance your portfolio
Adjust your mix of stocks, bonds, and other investments to match your goals.
What you will need
- Investment account statements
- Target asset allocation plan
- Calculator or investment app
Steps to follow
- Check your current investment mix (stocks, bonds, cash, etc.).
- Compare it to your target allocation.
- Sell or buy assets as needed to return to your target.
- Review mutual funds or retirement accounts for similar adjustments.
Benefits
Maintain your risk level
Keeps your portfolio consistent with your goals.
Lock in gains
Selling appreciated assets helps capture profits.
Stay disciplined
Avoids emotional investing during market highs and lows.
31
Oct
Open a savings account or top-up an existing one
Start or add to a savings account to strengthen your financial safety net.
What you will need
- Personal ID
- Bank or credit union options
- Minimum deposit (if required)
Steps to follow
- Compare savings account options at banks or credit unions.
- Choose an account with no fees and a good interest rate.
- Open the account online or in person.
- Deposit an initial amount, even if it's small.
- Set up automatic contributions to grow steadily.
Benefits
Grow savings
Even $50/month builds $600/year.
Avoid mixing funds
Separates savings from everyday spending.
Boost security
More cash on hand for emergencies.
30
Oct
Maximize the earnings on your cash
Move cash into high-yield accounts to earn more interest.
What you will need
- Current bank statements
- Rate comparison websites (e.g., Bankrate.com)
- Loan statements (especially adjustable-rate loans)
- Online banking access
Steps to follow
- Check the interest rate your current bank pays on savings.
- Compare it with online banks and credit unions using Bankrate.com.
- Open a new account if you find a higher rate, and transfer your balance.
- If you hold adjustable-rate loans, review their current and projected rates.
- Decide whether using extra cash to pay down those loans saves more than interest earned.
Benefits
Earn more interest
Moving $100,000 from 0.5% to 1% earns an extra $500 per year.
Save on loan costs
Paying down adjustable-rate loans reduces rising interest expenses.
Make money work harder
Shifting idle cash improves returns with little effort.
29
Oct
Check credit card statements for any unfamiliar charges
Review monthly credit card statements to catch errors or fraud.
What you will need
- Latest card statements (online or mailed)
- Bank app or website
- Spreadsheet or notes
Steps to follow
- Download or open your monthly statement.
- Scan all transactions for names you don’t recognize.
- Verify recurring subscriptions and amounts.
- Flag any charges that seem incorrect.
- Call your issuer immediately to dispute.
Benefits
Prevent fraud losses
Catching charges quickly avoids $100s in disputes.
Save on errors
Billing mistakes can cost $20–$200 if unchecked.
Protect credit score
Timely disputes keep accounts accurate.
28
Oct
Block future credit card charges
Freeze or block cards you no longer want to use to avoid future charges.
What you will need
- Credit card login or mobile app
- Account numbers
- Contact information for card issuers
Steps to follow
- Log in to your credit card app or website.
- Select the option to freeze or block the card.
- Cancel any recurring charges linked to the card.
- Contact customer service if needed to confirm.
- Monitor your account for attempted charges.
Benefits
Prevent fraud
Blocks unauthorized use quickly.
Stop subscription leaks
Avoids $10–$50/month in forgotten charges.
Control spending
Limits temptation to overspend.
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.
Lifestyle
04
Nov
Wash throws, cushion covers, and blankets
Launder throws and cushion covers to freshen rooms and reduce allergens.
What you will need
- Laundry detergent and stain remover
- Mesh bags for delicate covers
- Dryer or drying rack
Steps to follow
- Check care labels and sort by color and fabric.
- Pre-treat any spots and place delicate covers in mesh bags.
- Wash on the recommended cycle and avoid high heat for delicates.
- Dry per label (low heat or air-dry) to prevent shrinkage.
- Reinstall covers and fold blankets once fully dry.
Benefits
Avoid dry-clean bills
Proper home care saves $50–$150 per season.
Extend fabric life
Gentle cycles delay replacements ($100–$500 per set).
Reduce allergens
Fewer irritants may cut cleaning/medical costs.
02
Nov
Declutter entryways and living rooms
Clear clutter in high-traffic rooms to make hosting and decorating easier.
What you will need
- Boxes/bins
- Labels and a marker
- Microfiber cloth and surface spray
Steps to follow
- Set three bins for keep, donate, and trash and start with flat surfaces.
- Sort shoes, bags, and mail and return only essentials to the entry.
- Stash seasonal items in labeled bins and move them to a closet or shelf.
- Wipe surfaces and vacuum to finish the reset.
- Drop donations the same day to avoid backsliding.
Benefits
Skip storage fees
Less clutter reduces off-site storage needs ($50–$200/month saved).
Create calm environment
Reducing clutter will make your space feel more welcoming.
Clean faster
Fewer items out means shorter daily tidy-ups.
01
Nov
Unpack holiday decorations
Unpack and sort holiday decorations, discard broken items, and test all lights before decorating.
What you will need
- Extension cord and spare bulbs/fuses
- Storage bins, labels, and trash bags
- Microfiber cloths
Steps to follow
- Lay everything out on a table or floor so you can see what you have.
- Inspect ornaments and décor and toss anything cracked, or broken.
- Plug in each light string and replace bad bulbs/fuses or retire the set if cords are damaged.
- Wipe dust from décor and coil cords neatly to avoid tangles.
Benefits
Prevent hazards
Retiring damaged lights avoids fire risks and costly losses ($5,000+).
Avoid re-buys
Getting rid of old pieces and labeling reduces duplicate purchases ($20–$100).
Save setup time
Pre-tested lights cut installation time (fewer ladder trips).
30
Oct
Test garage door auto-reverse feature
Check your garage door’s auto-reverse safety feature to protect people, pets, and vehicles.
What you will need
- Sturdy object (e.g. block of wood)
- Garage door remote
Steps to follow
- Place a solid object under the open garage door.
- Press the remote to close the door and watch the movement.
- Confirm the door stops and reverses when it touches the object.
- Test the photo sensors by waving your foot or hand through the beam as it closes.
- Call a technician if the system fails to reverse or sensors don’t respond.
Benefits
Prevent injuries
Stops accidents that could lead to medical costs.
Avoid vehicle damage
A working safety feature saves $500–$2,000 in repairs.
Stay compliant
Keeps door systems up to safety code, reducing liability.
29
Oct
Test and inspect indoor heating system
Check your heating system before the cold weather arrives to ensure it’s safe and efficient.
What you will need
- New furnace filter (correct size)
- Vacuum with brush attachment
- Flashlight
Steps to follow
- Switch your thermostat to Heat and run the system for 10–15 minutes.
- Listen for unusual noises like rattles or squeals.
- Check vents for strong, warm airflow in each room.
- Replace the furnace filter to keep air moving freely.
- Call a technician if you smell gas, hear loud noises, or get no heat.
Benefits
Avoid repair bills
Catching issues early prevents emergencies ($150–$400).
Lower heating costs
Clean filters and vents save $50–$150 annually.
Extend system life
Prevents overwork, delaying replacement ($3,000–$8,000).
28
Oct
Vacuum lint from the dryer vent
Clear lint from your dryer vent to prevent fires and improve efficiency.
What you will need
- Vacuum with hose attachment
- Dryer vent brush or kit
- Screwdriver
Steps to follow
- Unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall.
- Detach the vent hose from the back of the dryer.
- Vacuum inside the hose and wall vent to remove lint buildup.
- Use a vent brush to reach deeper into the duct.
- Reconnect the hose securely and test the dryer.
Benefits
Prevent fire damage
Reduces fire risk and potential losses ($10,000+).
Lower energy bills
Improves efficiency, saving $20–$50 annually.
Extend dryer life
Prevents overheating that can cause breakdowns ($300–$700).
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).
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
03
Nov
Check your smart home system
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
- Open each device app and install pending firmware/security updates.
- Replace low batteries in sensors, locks, and remotes.
- Review automations and schedules (away, sleep, holiday modes) and adjust for winter.
- Test cameras, doorbells, and locks to confirm alerts and remote access works.
- 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
Inspect cables and cords for wear, cracks, or exposed wires; replace if necessary
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
- Unplug cords and lay them out so you can check the full length.
- Inspect plugs, strain reliefs, and jackets for splits, kinks, burn marks, or exposed wire.
- Discard and replace any damaged cords with certified equivalents of the right rating.
- Re-route cables away from heat, sharp edges, and pinch points to prevent future wear.
- 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).
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