[PennyPincher]

I think we'd all agree that there are a ton of ways to go about paying bills, but it has to work for you..and almost be enjoyable, if possible. I am online alot, so I pay my bills through Wachovia's BillPay. Big fan. I also love spreadsheets, (though I HATE bills)...so I have everything set up on spreadsheets. I enjoy inputting formulas to caculate balances, category spending, etc. My fiance would NEVER do this.

So...what aspect if any, do you like or can you incorporate into paying bills?
Or at least make it EASY so you get them in on time.

Here's another thought - Get one of those plastic see-through folders. Like the manila mailing ones...that have a clasp. I would make a small chart (or spreadsheet) of what bills you have, and the due date. Then leave a blank space or box similar to this:

Mortgage 1st |_|

Cable 10th |_|

Power 12th |_|

Phone 15th |_|

Car 17th |_|

AMEX 21st |_|

I would laminte the list (or make copies for each month if you prefer). If you stick the laminated list on the outside of your folder, you can just check it off with a wet-erase marker when you pay it, and take the bill out of the folder. Or, you can tape the list inside and possible use the marker on the outside. Then you can wipe off and reuse every month. If needed, you could make two - 'current month' and 'next month' so that you can see the bills that are due early the next month.

It may seem like a silly idea, but visuals are often great. Not only would you see the check-marks, but you'd see the bills inside, and see them disappear as they are paid. No more searching through piles. It could be adapted to have two sections for when they are due, or by month, etc...but sometimes simple is best.

Just a thought. Hope you find something that works well for you MrsChambers!