In a priority list of unpaid bills, which one is given the number 1?

1. Priority numbers rank bills by what happens if they go unpaid. 2. Number 1 goes to the bill with the most serious consequences. 3. Higher numbers mark bills whose consequences are less serious. 4. Consequences that stop you earning income, threaten your housing, harm health or cost you assets carry the most weight. 5. So the bill with the worst consequences is number 1 and is paid in full and on time if possible. 6. The largest amount due may still rank low if late payment costs little. 7. The earliest due date sets timing, but a soft consequence can justify paying it late. _Source: FDIC Money Smart for Adults (September 2018), Module 4: Your Spending and Saving Plan, section Apply It: Prioritizing My Expenses_