The last weeks of the year always move fast. Schedules fill, budgets tighten, and most people don’t have the time — or energy — to think about their health benefits. But year-end is one of the most important moments to get intentional.
A few small steps now can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs heading into 2026, protect families from surprise bills, and help people use the benefits they’ve already paid for.
Here are five smart, practical moves anyone can make before the year wraps:
1. Use the preventive care you’ve already earned.
Most preventive services — annual physicals, cancer screenings, well-women exams, vaccinations — are covered at $0 out-of-pocket under most plans. Still, nearly 1 in 3 adults skips preventive care each year (CDC). Getting these visits done before December 31 helps catch issues early and avoids far more expensive treatment later.
2. Check your remaining FSA or wellness dollars.
FSAs are “use it or lose it,” and nearly half of FSA users forfeit money annually because they don’t spend it in time (FSA Store/HealthEquity). Wellness stipends often expire too. Those dollars can cover eligible expenses like new glasses, dental care, mental health sessions, OTC medications, or fitness tools that support long-term health.
3. Refill maintenance medications before deductibles reset.
Once January hits, your deductible restarts — and pharmacy costs can jump. In 2024, the average deductible for single coverage was $1,735 (KFF). If you’ve already met yours, December is the cheapest moment of the year to refill chronic medications, stock up on generics, or request 90-day supplies.
4. Review upcoming appointments and confirm providers are in-network.
Surprise medical bills are still common — even post-No Surprises Act — especially when patients unknowingly visit an out-of-network imaging center or specialist. Prices for the same service can vary by 5–10x, and an out-of-network ultrasound or MRI can quickly turn a $200 appointment into a $1,000–$2,500 bill (KFF Health News).
5. Look at your 2026 plan and make informed choices early.
Premiums are rising across the country, and cost-sharing rules (like copays and coinsurance) are changing for many plans. Even five minutes reviewing your 2026 coverage can help you avoid costly mistakes — especially around urgent care vs. ER, telehealth benefits, and prescription tiers.
You don’t need a complicated strategy to save money on healthcare. You just need a few intentional moves before the year turns. Small steps now can make 2026 feel more manageable — and more affordable — for you and your family.