By Staff Writer

The billfold, unlike other wallets, contains not only bills, but also important papers like resumes and receipts for easy access. It is slightly bigger than other wallets and longer, although not thicker. It offers the ability to keep papers straight and presentable, but does not normally include a coin purse. Although there are industry standards for billfold wallets, here are some categories for how to select a billfold wallet that is perfect for you.

  1. Bigger doesn't necessarily mean better. Wallets are made for pockets. However, billfolds can sometimes be large, bulky things that are better left in bags. If you purchase a men's billfold, it may be able to easily fit in your back pocket. A woman's billfold, depending on the size can either fit in a pocket or be carried in a purse. Before you purchase a billfold, think about where you'd like to store it. This will help you determine the best size.
  2. Consider wallet accessories. Most billfold wallets have two sides, two clips on either side wherein one side is for bills and the other is for papers. The clips itself can be large and bulky and may chafe your skin if you are always on the go, the bigger clips are bulkier, but offer tighter holds on your bills while thinner, longer ones keep your bills straighter.
  3. Decide on a material. Wallets are made of leather goods. Of course, if you are a member of an animal rights group, this may not be the best material option for you. Also, there are some people who are allergic to leather and cannot buy leather belts and leather handbags. If you are allergic or would rather not buy leather products, choose other kinds of billfolds that are made of other fabrics. Do a quick search as to what looks good and what goes with your style.
  4. Find a good price. As a rule, authentic leather wallets are more expensive than synthetic leather ones. This is because leather takes a longer time to cure than the synthetic leather. However, leather wallets are also hardier, and last longer than most synthetic wallets. They also don't absorb water as quickly, leaving your bills and more importantly, your papers, dry if you are ever stuck in the rain. Of course, like most other things, you buy the manufacturer's name more than the product and this may have a huge impact on the price. This does not necessarily mean, however, that these products are of better quality, so, like most items, choose a billfold with good material and a better price.

Wallets, like money clips, keep the most important things close at hand, where we need them. However, this does not mean that you should just buy any old wallet that comes your way. Wallets are made to last, much like the important papers and money that are stored in them. Buy a wallet that you are sure will last and will keep your money and papers safe.