The end of the year tends to be a busy time for everyone, and many chores and reminders can easily fall through the cracks. Here are three things you may not think about often, but residents of our Olympus apartments will be glad they checked them off their to-do lists.

Clear Out Expired Medication

It's a good idea to review your home supply of medications to see what has expired and what you're running low on. This includes checking your medicine cabinet, first aid kits, and even vitamins and supplements. Do not dump expired medication down a drain or in the trash because it could eventually pollute local water supplies or fall into the wrong hands. Instead, check with your local pharmacy or local police department as they will often have a drop-off area for the safe disposal of expired medications. Be sure to remove your name and any other identifying information from medication labels before dropping off these items.

Use Health Benefits Before They Reset Each Year

Your health insurance plan may offer free or low-cost services each year like preventive checkups, wellness screenings, immunizations, and even allowances for contacts or glasses. If you don't take advantage of these yearly benefits, you could be leaving money on the table. Try to schedule any visits as early as possible because most doctors' calendars fill up quickly at the end of the year. Similarly, check for Flex Spending Account (FSA) balances that may expire or deductibles you've almost reached. FSA balances typically reset each year, as does spending towards deductibles, and you don't want to lose out on a chance to save money.

Use Bonus Points, Reward Miles, or Coupons Before They Expire

Many frequent traveler programs and bonus programs offer attractive benefits like free hotel certificates, free companion tickets, or coupons for free services. If you've earned these types of rewards, it's only fair that you should get a chance to enjoy them! Check your balances and read the fine print on these offers so you can use them before you lose them. If a coupon or reward is about to expire, it never hurts to call the issuing company and ask them to extend the expiration date or transfer the points or certificates to someone who can use them.

A little planning today can reap big rewards for you before the year ends. And once you get the ball rolling, try some home organization techniques that can transform your life. Contact us today to learn more about the opportunities waiting for you at Olympus apartments.