How often do you remember to pay a bill after the due date has expired? While this is a common occurrence, the good news is that it can be remedied. By adopting a few simple strategies, you can gain control of your finances and never miss a bill payment again.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 10 - 15 Minutes
Here's How:
- Keep Bills Visible:
Do not stash outstanding bills in a drawer or a file cabinet. If they are out of sight, they can easily be out of mind. Therefore, keeping them visible, on a letter tray for example, will act as a reminder to pay those bills. - Record Due Dates:
Whether you use a paper or electronic organizer, cell phone, desk or wall calendar; it is important to record the bill due date, preferably 7-10 days prior to the actual due date, which will help you avoid late payments. - Set-Up Reminders:
Many companies offer free email or cell phone reminder services that will notify you of upcoming bill payments that are due. I like to keep these in my email inbox so that they are visible until I have paid them, and act as a reminder. - Rearrange Payment Dates:
Many companies will allow you to change the payment due date which then can allow you to pay for a number of bills at once rather than staggered throughout the month.
