5 Steps to Simpler Bills
You’ve merged your lives, and possibly your accounts, but now you have all this extra stuff to manage, including more bills. But it doesn’t have to be so painful (except for the parting with your money part). Follow our tips to make this chore quick and efficient.

Step 1: Get organized.
No, it’s not impossible! In fact, our way is simple -- and makes life easier too.

How? Start by establishing a clear division of which spouse pays which bills, or by putting one of you in charge of all payments. When the next bill arrives, toss out the junky extra paper stuffed inside and file your statement in a specific place -- your organizer, a filing cabinet, anywhere with easy access. Then go to the calendar you check every day, write the bill’s name on its due date (or the date you need to mail the check by), and highlight it in pink. With your paydays in mind, select one or two days of each month (preferably the day you get paid) to write checks. This way, you can budget the rest of your month based on what’s left in the bank.

Step 2: Consolidate billing cycles.
It’s no fun to feel like everyone is demanding a piece of your paycheck all the time. But getting all your statements on a schedule that works for you will allow you to attack other projects.

How? Ask your credit card and utility companies if you can select a new due date. Depending on your financial situation, you might want all bills due at one time and be done with them or have them spaced out twice a month. After the first schedule is made, you will know what to expect every month.

>>See more simplifying tips!