As the year draws to a close, it’s time to take a closer look at something you may not think about often—your unused benefits.
Every year, countless people let their hard-earned benefits expire simply because they didn’t act in time. This could mean leaving money, services, and most importantly, health improvements on the table. Don’t let this happen to you! With a few strategic steps, you can maximize your benefits and ensure nothing goes to waste. Here’s why scheduling your year-end appointments now is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Why Year-End Deadlines Matter
Many insurance plans and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) operate on a “use-it-or-lose-it” basis. That means any benefits or funds you haven’t used by December 31st may vanish for good. Whether it’s routine dental cleanings, eye exams, physical therapy sessions, or annual wellness checkups, these services play a key role in maintaining your health. Even better, they often come at little to no additional cost if covered by your plan.
Failing to utilize these services not only leaves potential savings on the table but could also lead to health complications that might have been avoided with routine care. For example, missing a dental cleaning can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, potentially causing gum disease or cavities. Skipping an eye exam might mean overlooking early signs of vision issues or eye-related health problems like glaucoma.
By taking action now, you can sidestep the end-of-year rush, avoid scrambling at the last minute, and secure the services you’ve already paid for through your insurance premiums.
Benefits That Often Expire
There’s a wide range of benefits and services that might expire at the end of the year. Some of the most common ones include:
- Dental Cleanings & Treatments: Most dental insurance plans cover two cleanings per year. If you haven’t scheduled your second visit, now’s the time to book.
- Vision Care: If you’re due for a new prescription or need to update your glasses, your vision benefits likely cover this annually. Don’t let them lapse!
- Wellness Exams: Preventative care, such as annual physicals, is often included in most health plans. These exams can help identify potential health issues early, saving you time, money, and stress in the future.
- Specialist Visits: If you’ve been delaying an appointment with a dermatologist, orthopedist, or other specialist, consider scheduling it now.
- FSA Funds: Flexible Spending Accounts are a big one. Any unused funds in your FSA typically don’t roll over into the next year. Use these funds for eligible expenses like medical supplies, prescription glasses, or elective procedures.
To stay organized, make a quick checklist of what you’re eligible for and prioritize the appointments or expenses that are most critical.
Why You Should Act Now
The end of the year is one of the busiest times for healthcare providers. As the December 31 deadline approaches, appointments fill up fast. Waiting too long to book could mean missing out entirely on the care you need. Providers often have limited availability, and competition for slots increases as the clock winds down.
Acting early allows you to lock in a convenient time and ensures you get the most value out of your benefits. Plus, it helps you avoid the stress of scrambling to fit in last-minute appointments.
How to Make the Most of Your Benefits
Maximizing your benefits isn’t difficult, but it does require a little planning. Here are some simple steps to help you:
- Review Your Plan: Log in to your insurance portal or contact your provider to check what benefits are still available. Understanding what you’re entitled to is the first step to making informed decisions.
- Prioritize Your Needs: Assess your healthcare needs and focus on what’s most important. For instance, dental cleanings and vision exams might take precedence if you haven’t had them this year.
- Book Early: Don’t wait until the last week of December to make your appointments. Many providers offer online booking, so you can secure your spot quickly and conveniently.
- Use Your FSA Wisely: If you have leftover FSA funds, consider using them for eligible expenses like medical supplies, contact lenses, or even elective procedures that improve your well-being.
The Cost of Waiting
Unused benefits are essentially wasted money. Think of it as leaving cash on the table—money you’ve already paid through premiums or contributions to your FSA. Beyond the financial loss, skipping routine care can lead to more significant health problems over time.
For instance, neglecting preventative dental care might result in costly treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals later. Skipping wellness exams could mean missing early warning signs of conditions that are easier and less expensive to treat when caught early.
In other words, the cost of waiting often far outweighs the effort of taking action now.
Maximize Your Benefits Today – Act Before Year-End!
Taking care of your health is one of the best investments you can make. If you’ve been putting off that dental cleaning, eye exam, or wellness checkup, now is the perfect time to act. Reach out to your healthcare providers, schedule your appointments, and use up any remaining FSA funds before they disappear.
Your benefits were designed to help you maintain your health and well-being—don’t let them go to waste. You’ve earned these resources, so make the most of them before the year ends. Your health (and wallet) will thank you for it.
