December can feel expensive, right? Gifts, decorations, work events, and that quick dash for last-minute groceries – all of it adds up. But there’s a silver lining: while you’re likely spending more this month, it can also be the perfect time to squeeze every last drop of value out of the benefits and entitlements you’ve earned throughout the year. We know life is busy but a little effort now can help you save money next year.

Here are three straightforward ways to make the most of what you’ve already paid for:

1. Check Your Health Insurance Extras
Got private health insurance with extras like dental, physio, or optical? Remember, most annual limits reset on January 1, so it’s worth giving your insurer a quick call or checking their app to see what credit balance you’ve got left. Been putting off that dental clean or new pair of glasses? Or maybe you’re overdue for a physio appointment or a remedial massage? Booking in now ensures you don’t let those benefits slip through your fingers. You deserve to get what you’ve paid for!

2. Review Your Medicare Safety Net and PBS Safety Net

If you’ve needed to see the doctor a bit more this year, or if medication costs have burnt a hole in your wallet, you might have triggered the Medicare Safety Net or Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Safety Net. Once you hit the threshold, your future appointments and prescriptions often come at a lower cost, but only for the calendar year. If you’re already over the limit, schedule those remaining appointments and fill any prescriptions you can before December 31. It’s a simple move that could mean cheaper healthcare now, rather than waiting until after the reset in January.

3. Use Any Remaining Health Plans

If you have a GP Management Plan, Chronic Disease Management Plan, or Mental Health Treatment Plan, remember that these come with a capped number of subsidised sessions each calendar year. If you still have a few sessions in the bank, why not book in before the year ends? Even if you’re feeling okay, a check-in could help you start 2025 on stronger footing.

More Ways to Save

Aside from healthcare, now’s also a great time to check if you have any other time-sensitive benefits waiting. Have you got any rewards points about to expire or gift cards tucked away in your wallet? A quick review could uncover a few extra dollars in value, whether it’s redeeming that store credit on holiday groceries or claiming a work training allowance before it’s gone.

Make the Most of Your Entitlements

Every benefit you don’t use is money left on the table – money that could help you or your family feel a little more secure come the new year. Take a moment now to review your health cover, your Medicare thresholds, and any other perks you’ve earned. A simple phone call, a quick app check, or a spur-of-the-moment appointment booking could be the difference between starting January feeling strapped or feeling prepared. Come January 1, you’ll be glad you put in the effort!