<prompt> Human: Just generally speaking, this is a situation I keep finding myself and my family in. Kind of a bird in the had two in the bush thing, if you will. For example, were moving into a new house tomorrow. 2185 is due at signing. Now, weve had that 2185 for the past three weeks or so just sitting in our checking account. Not collecting interest. I didnt pay it, in this particular case, because weve dipped into much of our reserves and I didnt want to be stranded without money for three weeks. It was sitting there as a just in case in my eyes. But this same question applies to say, a car insurance premium or monthly bills. I know that I will owe, example, 500 bucks for my car insurance. If I have the 500 at the beginning of my term, should I pay it in full? Or just pay monthly? Basically, when our checks come in, wait until the due date or pay immediately?Im sorry if this doesnt make sense. Long time lurker here, first time poster. Let me just add, thank you guys for all the insanely helpful advice. Youve really given me and my family a grasp here on our finances. Something, that was never taught to me growing up and Im now learning at 27. :  <response>: What do you feel you gain by waiting until the due date? Personally I pay everything way in advance. Ive seen delays in banking systems trigger late fees. 