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If you’re already in a state of financial distress, late fees have the potential to set you back even further. In fact, it can become extremely difficult to work your way out of the debt that has accumulated once the late fees and other charges start getting tacked on. It is important to create a plan to avoid the hassle of late fees.

1. Create a savings buffer. One of the best ways to avoid late fees is to set aside a certain amount of money every month into a dedicated emergency fund. However, it’s important to remember that an emergency fund is just that – a stash of money that can only be used when there are no other alternatives.
2. Set up direct payments. Since a direct payment system automatically pulls the funds from your checking account every month, it’s much harder to default on bill payments since you don’t have to physically mail in the money. However, it’s also important to remember that you have to keep the funds available in your checking account – if you don’t you will incur overdraft fees.
3. Seek out an online cash advance lender.While you are in the process of creating an emergency fund, you can always ask for help to tide you over until your paycheck hits – especially if you are in a pinch and your utilities are going to be shut off.

Fortunately, avoiding late fees isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound – especially if you take the time to plan ahead for the unexpected.