Help if you're in debt

Take control

It’s never too late to sort out your debts and find support. You can get free, confidential, impartial debt advice from the charities National Debtline and Stepchange.

They can help you to:

• work out your budget
• deal with your most urgent debts
• deal with your non-priority debts.

Your local Citizens Advice can also advise you if you’re in debt. Their useful budgeting tool may help you to work out your spending and where you might be able to save money.

You can find local debt advice agencies on the MoneyHelper website.

Get a benefits check

Make sure you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to. Our Benefits calculator can help work out what you may be able to claim. Alternatively, call our free Helpline and arrange a benefits check with an adviser.

If you have an unexpected cost due to an emergency or crisis, you might be entitled to help from your local council’s welfare assistance scheme. For some other costs, you may be able to claim an interest-free Budgeting Loan from the government if you're getting certain benefits. There are also some charities that offer grants.

Don’t be tempted to get a payday loan or use credit cards to pay off your debts. These are short-term solutions and can make the problem worse.

Some companies may offer to help you sort out your debts for a fee but that money would be better spent on paying off your debts. Use the free independent services instead.

Get support

Money worries can make you feel stressed and anxious, which in time may affect your mental health. Visit Mind's website for advice on coping with money worries. For more general ways to care for your mental health, see our page Looking after your mental health.