How to pay my bills on time
How I did it: This goal was more about repairing my once impressive credit score, which was severely affected by falling back on regular payments (vis-à-vis late fees, over-limit fees, deposits, etc.).
First I tackled my credit card debt through a non-profit co. called InCharge (debt management, not consolidation, and yes I would recommend them). My APR's were reduced to beautifully low levels which in turn helped me pay them off quicker.
I used a simple spreadsheet to keep track of all regular expenses, and used MS Money and WF online to keep track of bank balances (yes I was using Wells Fargo Bank at the time. They were the most annoying and evil part of the whole process of climbing out of debt, imo).
I had to eliminate a lot of expenses to build up a bank balance, which you'll need if you want to set up automatic payment deductions (recommended).
Reconcile all credit/debit purchases with your bank account EVERY DAY. Knowing how much money you have in the bank at all times is key.
Once you're in a position where you're not paying late fees, over-limit fees, non-sufficient funds fees, savings transfer fees, deposits, and etc., you'll be able to spend more money on those things you had to eliminate. Like cable. Which isn't a necessary expense so much as something that makes you happy, and not the wretched, forlorn creature you were when you were drowning in debt.
That's all folks!
Lessons & tips: Think before you buy.
Don't ever believe what sales people tell you.
Don't trust advertised prices.
Resources: Bob Sullivan is a consumer advocate and a fine human being. Seek out sources like Bob for your information.
Planet Money is a fantastic podcast pertaining to the current economy and weeding through the causes of the crisis. NPR in general is a great source for information.
There is more. Perhaps I'll update when I feel more like it :P
