Day 26: Why Your Future Self Will Thank You for Setting Up Automatic Payments

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Let’s talk about late fees. You know, those pesky little surprises that show up like uninvited party guests, eating into your wallet and your credit score. If you’ve ever uttered the words, “Wait, the bill was due yesterday?!”—this one’s for you.

Setting up automatic payments isn’t just about dodging late fees (though, let’s be honest, that’s a solid perk). It’s about taking one more item off your mental checklist and creating a smoother path to financial success.

The Case for Automation: A Tale of Two Bills

Imagine two people. One is you—smart, driven, and maybe just a smidge distracted by life. The other is your utility bill, patiently sitting in the corner waiting to be paid. You know it’s there, but between hockey practice, work deadlines, and Crosby the dog demanding belly rubs, you forget. Fast forward a week, and BAM—late fee. Your utility bill now costs an extra $35, and your credit score takes a hit for dessert.

Now picture this: You, sipping coffee, smiling smugly because your automatic payment went through on time. That $35? Still in your pocket. Your credit score? Untouched, gleaming like a freshly polished trophy.

How Automatic Payments Help Your Credit Score

When you consistently pay bills on time, your payment history—aka the biggest factor in your credit score—shines. Lenders love a punctual payer, and your credit score will thank you by opening doors to lower interest rates, better loans, and the kind of financial freedom that feels oh-so-good.

Common Excuses for Avoiding Automation (and Why They’re Ridiculous)

1. “What if I don’t have enough in my account?”
   Solution: Set up alerts or schedule payments for just after payday. Problem solved.

2. “I like to be in control!”
   Reality check: You’re still in control—you’re just outsourcing the tedious part.

3. “I’ll remember to pay!”
   Sure you will… until you don’t. Why take the risk when automation can do it for you?

How to Set It Up (It’s Easier Than Crosby’s Tricks)

1. Log into your bill provider’s website or app.

2. Look for the "Automatic Payments" or "AutoPay" section.

3. Link your checking account or credit card.

4. Select the amount (minimum due, full balance, or custom).

5. Sit back and let technology handle the rest.

Pro Tip: Keep an Eye on Things

Automation doesn’t mean "set it and forget it" forever. Check your accounts periodically to ensure everything is running smoothly and you’re not overpaying for something unnecessary (looking at you, gym membership you haven’t used since 2021).

Final Thoughts

Setting up automatic payments is like hiring a financial assistant who works for free and never takes a vacation. It saves you time, money, and stress while giving your credit score the love and attention it deserves.

So, take a few minutes today to automate those payments. Future You will be eternally grateful—and late fees will become a thing of the past.

Because really, don’t you have better things to do with $35?