Tickler File

A tickler file can be a great way to stay on top of bills. All you need is a large accordion folder and 43 manila folders. Label 31 of the folders with the numbers 1 through 31. Label the remaining 12 with the months of the year. Put the current month in front, and then file the numbered folders behind it, starting with tomorrow's date. For example, if you started your tickler file today, you would have the file labeled August in front, followed by the folder labeled with the number 11 (tomorrow's date). Behind 11, you'll have 12 through 31, and then 1 through 11. Behind that, you place the file labeled September . . . and so on. You get the picture.

Now take your bills and place them in the folder that corresponds to the date you need to pay them. If your water bill is due on August 29 and you want to pay it August 21, then put the water bill in the folder labeled 21. If you have some bills that don't need to be paid until next month, put them all in the September folder. When you get to the end of August, take them out of September and file them in the correct numbered folder.

Check you tickler file each day. You'll never pay a bill late again.