Bill Creep

I love the Wall Street Journal. Its always a gold mine of good stuff. In today's issue, Karen Blumenthal talks about becoming aware of "Bill Creep".

Its all about normal monthly expenses for things like cell phones, cable tv, or maybe its the gym, or your video rental service.

What happens is you sign up for cable tv at the basic rate of $39 month. The creep comes in when, over time, you add a premium for high definition, rental of a dvr, the occasional movie--you get it.

With cell phones, its going over your texting limit, downloading ring tones, etc.

At the gym, its the drinks, clothing, and Lars, the trainer.

Avoiding bill creep requires periodic review of the bill to see if the cost is 'creeping' . That can be tough if your checking account or a credit card is being debited .

Go look. I bet you have Bill Creep.