The clock is ticking to use your health insurance before the end of the year. Whether you’re on an ACA plan, employer coverage, or Medicare, these last few weeks are your chance to use benefits that may disappear when the calendar resets.
If you don’t take action now, you could miss out on covered services, lose unused account funds, or pay more for the same care in January. Let’s walk through five smart ways to make the most of your coverage now — and protect your wallet later.
5 Smart Ways to Use Your Health Insurance Before the End of the Year
1. Schedule Preventive Care and Wellness Visits
Most plans — including ACA-compliant and Medicare — cover preventive care at no cost. That includes annual physicals, screenings, immunizations, and more. If you haven’t used these benefits yet, now’s the time.
Clinics get busy in December, so don’t wait to book your appointment. This is one of the easiest ways to use your health insurance before the end of the year and support your long-term health.
2. Use Your FSA Funds Before They Expire
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), check your balance. Most FSA funds must be used by December 31 or you’ll lose them. Qualifying expenses include dental, vision, prescriptions, medical supplies, and more.
You can view eligible items on the IRS website. Remember, this is your money — don’t let it vanish at year-end.
3. Refill Prescriptions and Use Pharmacy Benefits
If your deductible is already met, this could be the cheapest time to refill medications. Some insurers allow early refills in December, especially for maintenance prescriptions. This ensures you start the new year stocked and saves you money if costs reset in January.
It’s another simple way to use your health insurance before the end of the year without changing your routine.
4. Complete Procedures Before Deductibles Reset
Have you been putting off a procedure or specialist visit? If you’ve met your deductible, getting it done before January 1 can save you hundreds — even thousands. Deductibles reset every calendar year, meaning you’ll have to start over in 2025.
Procedures to consider:
- Imaging (CT, MRI)
- Minor surgeries
- Chronic condition follow-ups
This is a smart way to use your health insurance before the end of the year for high-value care you need anyway.
5. Book Dental and Vision Appointments
Dental and vision coverage often runs on an annual cycle too — and unused benefits don’t usually roll over. Book exams, cleanings, glasses, or contacts before the year ends to make sure you use your full benefit.
This is especially important if you have Delta Dental, VSP, or other common plans that reset each January.
Why You Should Use Your Health Insurance Before the End of the Year
Using your benefits now means you get the most out of your premium dollars. It helps you avoid losing money, save on upcoming procedures, and start the new year feeling confident in your health coverage.
Too many people wait until it’s too late — don’t be one of them. Use your health insurance before the end of the year to take advantage of what you’ve already earned.
Need Help Making the Most of Your Plan?
ICT Insurance Group helps individuals and families across Kansas and 29 states understand their plans and make the most of every benefit — before and after open enrollment.
Need help figuring out how to use your health insurance before the end of the year?
Schedule your free year-end review or call (316) 440‑6111 to talk with a licensed advisor today.
FAQs About How to Use Your Health Insurance Before the End of the Year
What’s the deadline to use my health insurance benefits?
Most benefits reset on January 1, so December 31 is your last chance to use your 2024 coverage. That includes FSA funds, deductibles, and annual service limits.
Can I get a refund if I don’t use my insurance?
No — unused benefits are typically forfeited. That’s why it’s important to use your health insurance before the end of the year to get the full value of what you’ve already paid for.
What if I don’t know what my plan covers?
That’s where we come in. ICT Insurance Group offers free policy reviews and plan comparisons to help you make smart, informed decisions about your care and costs.
