To determine the best method for Melanie to avoid late fees, we need to consider which payment option ensures timely payment of bills. Let's review each method in the table:
1. Pay by check: This method requires Melanie to manually write and mail a check to the billing company. It relies on her remembering to send the payment on time and the postal service delivering it promptly. There is a risk of delays, which could result in late fees.
2. Pay online: This method allows Melanie to log into the billing company's website and make a payment directly from her bank account. While it can be quick and convenient, it also relies on her remembering to log in and pay the bill on time each month.
3. Set up automatic payments: With this method, Melanie's bills are paid automatically from her bank account or credit card on the due date each month. This ensures that payments are always made on time without requiring her to take any action each billing cycle. It minimizes the risk of late fees significantly.
4. Pay by telephone: This option involves calling the billing company and making a payment over the phone. Similar to paying online, it requires Melanie to remember to make the call each month and might also involve hold times or call center hours, which can be inconvenient.
Given the importance of avoiding late fees and ensuring bills are paid on time without relying on memory or manual actions each month, the best method for Melanie to use is:
3. Set up automatic payments
This method guarantees that payments are made on time, thereby minimizing the risk of late fees.
Hence, the corresponding method number is:
[tex]\[ \boxed{3} \][/tex]
