Basic Home Economics

During this rough financial time, some of us need to know how to handle the bills and such now that the money isn't there.
The first thing you should always do on payday is to go buy food. Next, pay your mortgage or rent. That is followed by your household bills, including car and insurance payments. If you cannot pay them in full, divide the money up, and pay each utility company a portion of what you owe. Yes, you do get behind that way, but it shows good faith effort. This way, they will be more willing to work with you than if you make no payments at all. Except the insurance companies.
The last things that get paid are things such as your credit card bills, things of that nature. Which I hope by now that if you cannot afford the bills I hope you have cut those cards up and are not using them any longer.
Which brings me to my next subject, cash. If you leave the credit cards, debit cards, and checkbook at home and take cash with you instead, you tend to spend alot less. With cash in hand, the reality of how much money you actually have, or don't have is right there in your face. This also helps to cut down on impulse buying. And don't forget those lists and try to stay out of those center aisles!